Coping with Infertility: Mental Health Tips and Support Resources
National Infertility Awareness Week takes place during the last week of April, shining a light on the challenges of infertility and is dedicated to empowering women to share their stories. At Cheyenne OBGYN, we want every woman facing infertility to know they are not alone in this journey.
Infertility can be an emotionally complex journey, and it’s important to prioritize your mental well-being along the way. Below, we’ve shared some thoughtful ways to help you cope with infertility and make time for self-care.
Communicate Your Feelings and Hardships
Infertility can sometimes feel like a silent struggle, making it difficult to talk about these feelings. However, communicating with someone, whether it’s a loved one or a professional, can provide an outlet for your frustrations, anger, and disappointment. Consider seeking therapy or joining an infertility support group so you can connect with others who share the same experiences.
Educate Yourself on Infertility
Understanding the medical aspects of infertility is essential for making informed decisions on what treatments to seek. Educating yourself on infertility can offer reassurance and brings a sense of community for those navigating infertility. Having this knowledge will aid you in exploring the best path for your family.
Focus on Distractions
Infertility can feel overwhelming, so it’s important to embrace the everyday moments that bring peace. Focusing on work, hobbies, and time with loved ones can help temporarily distract you, helping ease any troubling thoughts or anxiety you might face.
Practice Self-Care and Be Present
Self-care practices are one of the most effective ways to ensure time and attention is going to your own happiness. It comes in many forms–whether it’s taking a long bath, reading a book, or simply enjoying a quiet moment outdoors. This time is meant for you to tune into your body, embrace the present, and care for yourself in what way feels right.
Research Alternatives
Infertility is not the end of the road when building a family. Today, couples have several alternatives to explore their path to parenthood. Fertility medications may be an option for those who qualify. Some additional options include in-vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy, and adoption. With the right resources and information, there are many possibilities ahead of you.
Continue Intimacy With Your Partner
When trying to conceive, intimacy can sometimes feel routine or centered around ovulation schedules. While infertility can be discouraging, it’s important to nurture spontaneity and emotional connection with your partner. Prioritizing intimacy beyond conception efforts can strengthen your relationship and bring a sense of normalcy back to your relationship.
Resources For Mental Health
There are different places and programs in Wyoming that can support you throughout your journey.
- Wyoming Association of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Centers: They offer services and support for every individual going through a hard time.
- NAMI Wyoming: They organize support groups for individuals going through the same mental health concerns.
Call Us Today For Support
At Cheyenne OBGYN, we want to provide resources for every woman who may be struggling with infertility. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need a safe place to talk about your concerns. Call us or text us at 307-634-5216 and we can answer your questions and support you every step of the way.