From IVF to Pregnancy: How to Manage Anxiety Along the Journey - By Rosie Buckley

 The process of getting from IVF (in vitro fertilization) to pregnancy can, without a doubt, be among the most highly anticipatory endeavours for a woman. However, it is often accompanied by doubt, anxiety and for a good number of people, hope. Be it in waiting for the results of the IVF procedure, which is more or less the apprehensive procedure of waiting on results to come, or the first trimester of pregnancy. Although these emotions are quite common, dealing with them is important for one’s psychological and physiological health.

 Understanding Anxiety in the IVF Journey

 Among the most common reactions in people who undergo the IVF process is anxiety and this can also be caused by a myriad of factors. The process can have an extended period of waiting. If you have gone through the egg-freezing process, fertilisation rates, the rate of embryo growth, and ultimately, the pregnancy test. Each step can seem like a barrier that could be unable to be surpassed.

 Besides the clinical aspects of the procedure, there`s what could be described as the emotional part of the whole procedure. The expectations and their interplay with fears, happiness and sorrow, stress whether the procedure is going to work. Many women are able to relate as most people go through the procedure emotionally – as people who have hope and are able to get through the chaos but who constantly look forward to taking the next test or moving onto the next stage.

 Managing Anxiety During IVF

•  Let Yourself Feel Your Emotions

Probably the most important step in learning how to cope with anxiety is allowing yourself to feel your feelings. It is completely normal to feel pressured, anxious or even over stressed during the process. Understanding that others share similar experiences can also be a source of comfort

•  Educate Yourself and Stay Informed

The unknown is what usually causes panic. Understanding the IVF procedure and its steps will assist you in feeling more prepared during the entire process. Speak with your doctor actively, and seek clarification about what is being done and what the results are likely to be. It is reassuring to understand your treatment evaluation, as it relieves anxiety

•  Treat Yourself with Relaxation Activities

Things that help reduce stress such as mindfulness, or practices like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can be effective in alleviating anxiety. Everyday stresses are all in one place during IVF and concentration in these practices can greatly reduce the stress that often comes with it. Even something as simple as breathing exercises for five minutes can help alleviate tension

•  Upkeep a Healthy Lifestyle

Engaging in regular exercise as well as eating well rounded meals and getting sufficient sleep is very important. When your body is well fed and is strong, chances are high that your mind will be well as well. Light exercises such as walking and swimming are said to be beneficial on one’s mood and help in the release of stress hormones

•  The Role of Ultrasound Scans in Providing Reassurance

One of the most powerful tools for managing anxiety during the IVF journey is ultrasound imaging. Ultrasounds provide real-time insights into the progress of the pregnancy and can offer women much-needed reassurance.

•  Early Pregnancy Ultrasounds: A Lifeline for Reassurance

The period, when a woman undergoes an IVF procedure and has her first ultrasound scan that is predominantly done between 7-12 weeks of gestation, is considered to be the most nerving period of all. The ultrasound scan plays a very important role in determining the status of the embryo which is growing and getting population in the mother’s womb along with assessing its growth.

 Most women claim being able to see the heart on the ultrasound scan is probably one of most relieving moments of all. This gives the patient assurance that the pregnancy is healthy and taking root. One of the strongest images a woman has during the early stages of pregnancy is that of a tiny heartbeat and it also settles the anxiety which most women have during the early weeks of their pregnancy,

•  Additional Tips for Managing Anxiety During IVF
•  Seek Support: whether through a fertility support group, online community, or just a friend, it is important to have somebody’s support. Women who find themselves in the middle of the IVF process gain a lot by communicating with people who face similar stresses and challenges.
•  Focus on What You Can Control: IVF and pregnancy will always come with their ups and downs, some of which will be beyond your control. Instead, think of the factors you have control over, including self-care, your frame of mind, and your daily routine.
•  Cherish the Little Victories: Savour the little achievements such as successful egg harvest, embryo implantation or just enduring a rough week. Whichever the case, celebrating these wins however minor should encourage one to remain upbeat about the process.

 From IVF to Pregnancy: How to Manage Anxiety Along the Journey - By Rosie Buckley