Coping with infertility is very difficult. I know, I’ve been there. Prior to having my first baby, my husband and I spent six years trying to conceive. Dealing with the treatments and disappointment of not being pregnant remains one of the most difficult and heartbreaking times in my life. Luckily, there are some things you can do to cope while you are waiting for your baby.
Find someone to talk to about your feelings. Talking can help you feel better. Talk to a friend who has been through infertility treatments in the past. If you can’t find anyone to talk to, consider seeing a therapist. A professional will help you work through your feelings in a safe space. There are professional counselors who specialize in working with infertility patients. Ask your doctor for a referral.
Consider joining a support group for people with infertility. This will help you connect with others and not feel alone. Doing this can be very healing and can relieve some of the stress associated with trying to get pregnant. You can ask your doctor or search the internet to find a group. RESOLVE is a national organization dedicated to infertility. You can search for support groups on their website.
Attending a baby shower or visiting a friend’s newborn can be a heart wrenching experience. If you just can’t handle it, don’t go. Send a gift card with a handwritten greeting. You don’t have to put yourself through the stress of attending the shower if you feel you can’t handle it. Call your friend and explain the situation. A true friend will understand.
Infertility treatments can suck the romance out of a relationship. Scheduling sex to coincide with the best time to conceive isn’t always best for the marriage. Take some time to reconnect with your partner. Take a walk together or go out for a romantic evening, even if you don’t feel like it. The time you invest in your relationship will be well worth it in the long run.
Dealing with infertility is very stressful. It’s important to take the time to care for yourself. Do something that relieves stress and helps you feel calm. This can be anything relaxing that you enjoy. Go for a massage, take a yoga class, meditate or anything else that relaxes you.