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 By nature, infertility treatment causes stress.  Stress may be actual (i.e.: appointments, financial, etc.) or perceived (worry about outcome, etc.).  Some stress can be healthy, but chronic stress can cause difficulty over time. 

Stress produces a physiological response in our bodies.  Our brain sends a message to our adrenal glands to release the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol.  This response (often referred to as the “fight or flight” response) is developmentally adaptive and helps us survive in times of difficulty.  Unfortunately when we experience chronic stress, we over produce these stress hormones and the high level can have negative effects on our body.

What can you do?

First, pay attention to how stress may be affecting your body.  How are you sleeping?  Do you have unhealthy food cravings?  Are you having difficulty thinking clearly?  Do you seem to get sick easily?  Do you feel anxious or nervous much of the time?  Are you having trouble with your relationships to other people?

Second, know that you are not alone.  Many infertility patients experience difficulty with chronic stress.  Connecting with others (in person or on-line) who are going through a similar journey can be helpful.

Third, make yourself a priority.  Your physical and emotional well being is critical to the infertility process.  Make improvements in your eating to nutritionally support your wellness.  Find foods that are nutrient dense (i.e. whole foods, plenty of plants).  Also, try getting regular exercise.  And finally, add some relaxation exercises to your routine to help combat stress.

The Fertility Center offers counseling for all of our patients as well as a monthly stress-reduction support group “exhale.”  Feel free to contact our counselor, Kristin, to discuss your individual situation (616-988-2229 X104).

Submitted by Kristin Blackwell, LMSW (counselor at The Fertility Center)