THE ROLLERCOASTER

It’s totally normal to have feelings of anxiety when you’re trying to get pregnant. If you’ve been battling with infertility and have made the decision to go the route of in-vitro fertilization (IVF), these feelings of anxiety are likely going to magnified. In fact, studies have shown that women who undergo IVF treatments experience stress at all stages of the procedure. While that fact might be unnerving, it may also be comforting to know that you’re not alone in your feelings.

If you feel like you need help coping with the anxiety that comes with IVF treatments, keep reading because I’ve got some great advice.

IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF YOUR FEELINGS

Of course, the IVF procedure itself will make you feel anxious, but coping with the anxiety starts by identifying the specific worries that you have. When you are able to acknowledge exactly what it is about IVF treatments that makes you anxious, you can begin to deal with those feelings individually and take small steps to becoming more comfortable with the process.

TREAT YOURSELF

If there’s any time in your life when you deserve a little extra pampering, it’s when you’re undergoing IVF! Spend extra time with people who make you feel good, make appointments for massages and pedicures, buy yourself that handbag that you’ve been eyeing for weeks! A little bit of self-care going a long way in easing general anxiety so go ahead and treat yourself to the finer things in life.

EDUCATE YOURSELF

A great source of anxiety is the fear of the unknown so you can beat those negative feelings to the punch by gathering all the information that you can. Ask your doctor every question that you have and share your concerns with them. No question is a dumb question, the biggest mistake I made on my first round of IVF was not asking enough, on my second I asked anything and everything. This is a serious thing you’re are going through and you deserve to know as much as you want!

CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK

Even though it’s normal to have IVF anxiety, it’s important to intentionally shift your mindset from negative thoughts to neutral or positive ones. Once you’ve educated yourself on the IVF process, you should be able to begin thinking about IVF in a way that is productive. For example, give yourself a pat on the back for the strength that you’ve exhibited throughout this whole process! You (and your partner) have come a long way to get to where you are, and you are still killing it. No matter what the outcome is, the strength that you have will always be undeniable.

SEEK SUPPORT FROM OTHERS GOING THROUGH THE SAME

Experiencing infertility and undergoing IVF can feel very isolating. In times like these, it’s important to reach out to people who love you or people who have gone through similar experiences. Like they say, “it takes a village!” Being honest with yourself and others is a huge leap toward wellness. Once you allow yourself to open up to others, they will be able to help you cope with IVF anxiety. An easy tip is to search the hashtag #infertilitywarrior or #ivfwarrior etc, you will find other women going through the same process You will be surprised at how many women are willing to open up and support you, don’t be afraid to send that DM!

The IVF process is going to be a journey like no other. When you begin to feel anxious, take a deep breath and remember these tips for dealing with IVF anxiety. Although every day is uncertain, there is one thing that remains undeniable: you’re one strong woman, no matter the outcome of the procedure.

God wants the best for you. And even if having a child seems like its your one and only purpose, rest your heart, God has his purpose for you! Even though we may not feel like he is present, he is there holding our hand every step of the way. I know the fear of “never having my own” is the biggest one of all, trust me…I’ve cried hours thinking these thoughts in the past. But that’s what it is, MY thoughts not GOD’S PURPOSE. Once you let go of the what if’s, bad test results, low follicle scans, injections and all of the doubts…FREE yourself of that captivity and allow Jesus to feel your heart, no matter of the unknown.

He is in control. Have faith.

Love, Andi