Coping with Infertility: How to Manage the Stress of IVF

Infertility can rob you of the joy of parenthood, temporarily or otherwise, but it can also cause you intense feelings of stress. 

Right away, you’re putting intense pressure on yourself. You may also have extreme pressure at work. The stress can be incredible. Fortunately, you can learn to cope with the stress of your current situation.

Intense Pressure for Successful IVF

In a research study, scientists evaluated both partners of couples dealing with infertility. All couples were in the process of trying in vitro fertilization. What the research showed was that all the people in the study were experiencing intense stress. The concentrated focus on having a child was the most stressful factor for both men and women. 

Work Pressures

Because in vitro is so costly, people who are going through it also felt stressed about work issues. They may need to put in more hours, take on more work, or move to a higher-paying job. The job pressures not only add to their stress, but also often leave them exhausted at a time when they want to be physically at their best.

The Effect of Stress on IVF

Another study found that both men and women had better results in the IVF program when they were less stressed. You can’t eliminate all the stressors. They’re just part of the package. What you can do, though, is to learn how to manage the stress better so that it has less of an effect on your body and mind.

Shift Focus at Times

If you’re in IVF, you’re there for a reason. You want a child so badly that you’re willing to go through the effort and expense. That’s a wonderful thing! However, dwelling on that goal constantly can hurt more than it helps. 

It’s a good idea to shift focus at times. Do activities that have nothing to do with children. Go on dates with your partner and do something you both enjoy. Concentrate on the moment you’re sharing rather than anything that might happen afterwards. 

Manage Your Work Life

Your job stress can be incredible at this time when you need to cover the cost of IVF, especially if your insurance doesn’t cover it. What can you do? You have to do what it takes, right?

While you might not be able to work less, you can probably reduce the pressure you feel at work. Take time to enjoy your breaks more. Go out for a quiet lunch with a friend. 

Do your job as well as you can, certainly, but when it’s done, don’t rethink what you “should” have done. Then, when the day is over and you’re back home, allow yourself to put your job out of your consciousness until your next workday.

Talking to a psychologist gives you a chance to understand the forces behind the stress you feel. It’s also helpful way to learn coping skills you can use now and apply to your life no matter how it changes later.

About the Author
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.