Stress Awareness

Stress & Infertility

Infertility or difficulty conceiving is more common than you might think. In fact, according to the CDC, 1 in 8 couples, or 7.4 million individuals, struggle to get pregnant. Infertility is a medical condition, defined as the inability to get pregnant after one year of tying, that often requires medical treatment from a fertility specialist. Treatment for infertility can involve hormonal medications, blood work and sonogram testing, intrauterine inseminations, egg retrievals, and other assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF). While treatment plans are tailored to each patient and their unique needs, many patients often feel increased stress while undergoing fertility treatment.

If you are feeling anxious or depressed, you are not alone. Many patients feel this way at some point in their journey. You may feel stressed or sad, isolated from friends and family, or like you are going through treatment alone. Some patients may even feel angry at friends or family members that are having babies with seemingly no problems. Others may develop issues with their partner. It is important to recognize these feelings as they occur and let a member of your care team such as your doctor or nurse know if you are struggling.

Many patients feel better after talking to a therapist or social worker while some need the help of medication to lessen their feelings of anxiety or sadness. Others benefit from mind-body programs that promote mindfulness through techniques such as yoga and meditation. Here at RSNY, we are developing a program to meet some of these needs. The program teaches the basics of mindfulness from yoga stretches to breathing techniques designed to lower stress. Meditation is also helpful to some, and many patients utilize a variety of available apps to develop a practice of meditating for a few minutes each day.

While the choice of how to alleviate stress during your fertility journey is ultimately up to you, the most important thing is to know that you are not alone, your feelings are nothing to be ashamed of, and if necessary, to talk with someone you trust to find help. We’re here to support you every step of the way.