How Can I Cope with the Emotional Stress of Infertility?
According to WomensHealth.gov, about 10 percent of women in the United States struggle to conceive or to carry a pregnancy to term. Despite the fact that infertility affects more than 6 million women, though, it remains a fairly unspoken condition that most women try to cope with on their own.
If you have been trying to conceive for more than a year, you do not have to deal with the frustration or anger alone, and joining a support group could help immensely. Infertility issues can have a devastating effect on your mental health, and they will likely take a toll on your relationship, too, but there are resources out there for those who seek them.
If you have not been able to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term, turn to Women’s Pelvic Surgery. Dr. Shakiba is a board-certified gynecologist and uro-gynecologist who can evaluate your reproductive health. Call 201-301-2772 to make an appointment today.
Read on to learn four tips for coping with the stress of dealing with infertility:
- Get Moving
From stimulating the production of endorphins to improving your overall health, regular exercise has several benefits that can help when it comes to infertility. Both stress and excess weight can affect your ability to conceive, but physical activity combats these risk factors.
You do not have to join a gym and work out five days a week to reap the benefits, either. Attending yoga twice a week or going for a walk every night after dinner will improve your mood immensely and help you cope with any stress caused by infertility.
- Pursue Your Passions
If you are trying to get pregnant, you may find it hard to focus on anything else. Distract yourself from the stress of trying to conceive by pursuing a passion or picking up a hobby you have always wanted to try.
- Focus on Your Relationship
Trying to get pregnant month after month can put a serious strain on your relationship. Make sure you and your spouse still take the time out to focus on each other and not just on growing your family.
If you find that you are struggling to communicate effectively or one of you is feeling blame or resentment, you may want to consider seeing a marriage counselor who specializes in issues associated with infertility.
- Seek Outside Support
Both you and your spouse may struggle with the emotional impact of infertility, and if you only rely on each other for support, it is going to hurt your marriage. Seek other forms of help, whether in loved ones, close friends, or support groups.
For most women, failing to conceive after a few months of trying is not a cause for concern. If you are worried about your reproductive health, turn to Women’s Pelvic Surgery. Call 201-301-2772 to make an appointment today.