Allow yourself to cry and be angry
You may feel a wide range of emotions after you and your partner
are diagnosed as infertile. The period during which a couple
undergoes fertility
treatment is also emotionally difficult. It is often a time of
uncertainty and frustration.
During these times, it is important to address your feelings. You
should not "turn off" or ignore them. Know that it is okay to cry
after hearing news of a friend or relative's pregnancy. Understand
that you don't have to attend the birthday party your friend is
throwing for her young child. Such feelings are normal, and there
is no need to feel guilty when you experience them.
Allow partners to cope in their own way
People deal with their emotions differently. It is unfair to expect
your partner to feel or act as upset as you are. On the other hand,
it is also important for your partner to allow you to be upset and
cope in your own special ways.
Turn to your friends and family for
support
The physical and emotional toll of infertility can impact your
professional and social lives. To avoid straining these
relationships, be honest and up-front with your friends and family.
Let them know of ways they can be helpful and supportive. Also tell
them exactly how you wish to be treated.
Take steps to reduce stress
Infertility can cause stress for you and your partner. Infertile
women typically have higher levels of stress than fertile women.
Taking steps to reduce stress can help you feel better overall. Try
to identify the triggers of stress. Once you identify the factors
that generate stress in your life, the easier it will be to avoid
them and prevent stress in the future.
Research and discuss your options
It is important for you and your partner to research and discuss
your treatment options. It is also important for you and your
partner to understand that treatment may be unsuccessful. At some
point, you may find yourselves having to accept that conception is
not going to occur, and that it is time to stop treatments and
choose another option, such as adoption or child-free living.
Seek therapy if you need to
Although friends and family can provide support, you may want to
talk with someone who has a better understanding of what you are
going through. Many couples benefit from seeing an infertility
counselor or a therapist. Attending a support group may also help
you work through your feelings.
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