5 Tips for Managing Stress During IVF

Infertility is a common medical condition, affecting 1 in 8 couples. Millions of those couples turn to in vitro fertilization (IVF) for help in becoming parents. IVF is a process in which a woman’s egg is fertilized in a laboratory and transferred to her uterus.

IVF is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology. However, having IVF can be stressful because of the challenges of infertility and the ups and downs of treatment.

If you’re undergoing IVF, taking some simple steps can help you feel less stressed. The caring specialists at California Center for Reproductive Health recommend these five strategies for managing stress during IVF.

Stress buster #1: Yoga

Yoga combines rhythmic breathing with poses that stretch your muscles and boost your flexibility. It can help both your mind and body feel more relaxed.

There are many types of yoga. During infertility treatment, opt for gentle yoga styles such as hatha yoga. Avoid “hot” yoga, which takes place in overheated rooms.

Stress buster #2: Walking

Exercise is a proven stress buster. However, your doctor may suggest that you avoid vigorous exercise during IVF.

Walking offers a gentler exercise option. Like other types of exercise, walking boosts the release of your body’s own natural stress-soothing brain chemicals. It can improve your mood and help you feel refreshed and energetic.

Stress buster #3: Mindfulness meditation

Mindfulness meditation is a practice of calming your mind. You focus mindfully and intentionally on the present, letting go of worries about the future and regrets about the past.

Using audio guidance is a great way to get started with meditation. There are many popular meditation apps available.  

Stress buster #4: Expressive writing

Expressive writing gives you an opportunity to pour your emotions about an upsetting event or situation, such as infertility, onto a page. Writing allows you to express thoughts you may not feel comfortable sharing with others. This can help you put stressful feelings into perspective and feel less upset by them.

Try writing about what’s stressing you for 20 minutes a day for three or four consecutive days. Don’t worry about spelling or grammar; you’re writing only for yourself.

Stress buster #5: A daily gratitude journal

When you’re feeling weighed down by anxiety and negativity, focusing on things that make you feel grateful can lift you up into a more positive place. 

Keeping a gratitude journal is an excellent way to build a practice of appreciating the good things in your life. Each day, write down a list of the things that make you feel grateful. Your list could include items such as:

Tracking the many things that make you feel thankful can bring more joy into your life and help shift your attention away from the challenges of infertility. 

Why reduce stress?

Stress isn’t just an annoyance. It actually has a physical impact on your body. When you’re stressed, your body releases a cascade of stress hormones. If you’re chronically stressed over long periods of time, high levels of stress hormones can contribute to health problems.

Using stress reduction techniques like the ones above can lower the levels of stress hormones in your body. Some studies have found that reducing stress can improve your odds of getting pregnant during an IVF cycle.

Find out more

If you’re experiencing infertility, one of the best stress-busters is to work with a caring, experienced medical team. Here at California Center for Reproductive Health, our caring providers offer a full range of diagnostic and treatment services for couples dealing with infertility.

To find out how we can help you, call your nearest Los Angeles-area clinic in Encino, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, or Valencia, California, or use the easy online tool to schedule a visit with one of our specialists.

You Might Also Enjoy...

How Does Gender Selection Work?

Not all parents find joy in the surprise of finding out a baby’s gender at an ultrasound, a gender reveal party, or the time of delivery. It’s possible to select the gender of your baby. Here’s how it works.

Myths and Facts About Male Infertility

Both women and men can struggle with infertility. While a lot of attention is paid to what a woman can do to enhance her fertility, less is focused on men. Here are some of the most common myths, and facts, about men’s role in successful conception.

Healthy Habits That May Support Fertility

When you’re trying to conceive, optimizing your body and habits can help improve your chances. Here are some ways you can build a wellness routine that improves your chances of getting pregnant.

The Emotional Side of Infertility

If you’re struggling with infertility, you’re not alone. Millions of couples share in the frustration, emotional turmoil, and grief — even loss. These feelings are normal. Here’s how to manage them and get emotional support when you need help.

How Many Eggs Does a Woman Typically Have?

You may have heard that the quality and quantity of your eggs decrease as you age. But, what does this mean? Understanding how many eggs you typically have in your prime fertile years can help you with family planning.