IVF Stress/Anxiety

[Janemumma]

Wondering how everyone's mental health has been while TTC? Don't know anyone else going through it so would love to hear from whoever, positive or negative xx

Hello ❤️ I have definitely struggled, and still am as we near the start of treatment. It's just such an emotional time. There are some things that can help me - I try and do meditation but I go through phases, reading more, no social media, colouring in. I also have counselling through the clinic normally every 2 weeks and I journal. Some days I feel so low and cry, and feel on the verge of tears the whole day. Now we've got some dates I feel a little bit better because it's finally in sight. Xx

Hi there.
I am so sorry you have to go through this. It is indeed a very stressful experience.
I think it is some kind of an emotional rollercoaster. One day you are fine and the next hell breaks loose. As time goes by, I've learnt to live the emotions as they are and not to try to ignore them. I have good days and bad days and when I feel like a wreck I don't pretend I am fine. I've distanced myself from a lot of people because they comments were hurtful. I only speak to my mum, husband and a good friend. I also stopped putting pressure on my body, I've always eaten properly, but I haven't given up caffeine for example. I'm trying to stay healthy, but if i feel like eating chocolate I do it.
This whole process is so hard that adding more stress doesn't do any good.
Sometimess little things bring me joy and distracte: my cats and my dog, a nice walk, a good movie etc. I have tried so hard not to let infertility take over my life, but it's hard. Having a baby is my innermost wish, but meanwhile I am trying to survive through the unfairness of infertility.
All women who fight for having a baby are true fighters and survivors. 💗

Hi
I’m just starting out on my IVF journey (start stims on the 31st).
It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. In the beginning I was managing to stay really positive, but the closer it is getting now the anxiety and worry is setting in.
My consultant put me on the contraceptive pill which has really messed with my emotions.
One day I am fine and the next I’m a total mess, I’m trying to just accept each day as it comes.
I’ve definitely found being honest with DH about how I’m feeling has helped. Pretending to be ok when you aren’t was exhausting.
When I’m having a bad day, I force myself to be thankful and practice gratitude for example I am thankful that IVF exists and is giving us the chance or I am thankful we are in the financial position to allow us to do IVF etc. It helps me to refocus my energy on something positive

It’s really hard. I suffer from anxiety anyway, and I’m very anxious about medical stuff so I feel like I’m the worst candidate for ivf in a way.

We start next week, but at the beginning of January I started having panic attacks at night. I feel better now we’re a bit nearer to starting and the drugs are here, but still anxious. I know I will be when the EC is looming.