Tips To Get You through Fertility Treatment

Fertility treatment is becoming more common today. A 2014 report by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) showed that over 165,000 IVF procedures were performed in 2013 and more than 60,000 babies born as a result. The report stated that 1.5% of the babies born in 2013 in the US were as a result of IVF procedures.

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The growing trend also means that the stigma that was once associated with these treatments is disappearing as more people seek to support each other.

Getting through it

Fertility treatment is often the last resort when it comes to having a baby. Many couples only consider this option when they have tried and failed to conceive in the traditional way. The process can therefore seem complex and even stressful to many couples.

The following are some tips to help you get through it:

1. Not everyone will understand

Although the stigma associated with treatment for fertility is disappearing, not everyone will understand or be sensitive to your needs as you go through this process. Expect some insensitive remarks even from those closest to you. People will ask you why you’re trying so hard, why you can’t simply adopt or that you should stop worrying and it will happen.

Do your best to let these comments slide. Even well-meaning people trying to be supportive may not fully grasp what you’re going through. Try and educate them by talking openly about the process if you can.

2. Expect setbacks

When you begin the treatments, your doctor will give you some data on the chances of success. Treatments sometimes work. They also fail at times. The circumstances are often out of your control.

While it is important to have faith in the process, it is even more important to accept the possibility of setbacks. It can be devastating to encounter failure and have to try again. Talk to your doctor and understand the roadblocks you may encounter on the journey you have chosen.

3. Don’t let it take over your life

The success of the treatment is often unpredictable. There is little you can do to control it. You should therefore not allow it to control your life. Continue with your daily activities and plans. Go for the vacation you booked a year in advance. It could take years for you to conceive. Living your life and not stressing about the process will help make you a happier person and improve your chances of success.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

Your body weight has a great impact on your success rate. Studies have shown a link between high BMI and lower birth rates. This should be enough motivation to lose those few extra pounds. Getting your BMI to less than 25 will increase your chances of success to over 50%.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and eating clean and healthy foods. Avoid over exercising though. Exercise puts a physiological strain on your body. This can be counterproductive. Limit your exercise to low intensity workouts no more than three times a week.