Nobody ever said IVF was going to be easy. No matter what stage you’re at, I can guarantee there will be plenty of bumps on your quest for the bump! Sometimes, it may feel like your brain will explode from all the stress IVF can generate. It’s in these moments we all need to stop, sit back, and focus on self-care.
Nobody ever said IVF was going to be easy. No matter what stage you’re at, I can guarantee there will be plenty of bumps on your quest for the bump! Sometimes, it may feel like your brain will explode from all the stress IVF can generate. It’s in these moments we all need to stop, sit back, and focus on self-care.
Better yet, we should establish a self-care routine beforehand to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Each of the self-care strategies below give IVF mommas a sense of control, which is essential during this oh-so-uncontrollable experience.
Four Self-Care Ideas for Moms During IVF
Share Your IVF Journey In A Safe Space
I can attest to the emotional power of frequent blogging. After all, you are reading one of my many IVF blogs right now! Plus, if you’ve been following me on Instagram, you know how I keep everyone up-to-date on my IVF journey.
The reason I love sharing my IVF experience online is twofold. On the one hand, it helps me organize my thoughts and emotions to keep tabs on my mental health. Also, writing gives me a sense of purpose as I build my online IVF support village.
However, I understand not everyone will feel comfortable posting their IVF journey on social media. If that’s the case, I’d still recommend keeping a private IVF journal to document your triumphs and troubles.
Believe it or not, there’s scientific evidence that regular journaling can boost emotional and physical health. So, whichever way you feel comfortable expressing yourself, be sure to schedule a few daily free-writing sessions!
If you need some tips on where to find an IVF support group, you’ve got to check out this previous blog post.
Stay Fit With Gentle Yoga Poses
IVF can be incredibly frustrating if you’re a fitness fanatic. Suddenly, you have to abide by so many restrictions to your exercise routine. Thankfully, there are a few fitness programs that could give you that runner’s high without going against your doctor’s orders.
One of the most common ways IVF mommas stay fit during their treatment is by practicing yoga. Don’t worry about doing one of those super-crazy poses on the first day! A big part of yoga is honoring your body’s abilities and cultivating a compassionate attitude. It’s no wonder many mommas going through IVF say yoga becomes their natural stress reliever.
If you don’t feel comfortable joining an in-person yoga class right away, there are plenty of free beginner courses on YouTube. After you’ve mastered the basic poses, you may feel more comfortable meeting fellow momma yogis!
Mellow Out Those Meridians — Try Acupuncture Therapy
Honestly, if you’ve been through rounds of hormone injections, how scary could acupuncture needles be, right?
While acupuncture may seem a bit crazy, I know plenty of mommas who swear by this prickly self-care therapy. There’s also mounting scientific evidence that acupuncture can help reduce stress. Even more interesting, research out of Macedonia suggests acupuncture may naturally improve reproductive health!
So, if you don’t mind getting a few friendly pokes from a certified acupuncturist, it’s well worth considering.
Feeling Extra Stressed? Speak With A Qualified Therapist
When the stress of IVF gets too real, it’s time to talk with a registered therapist. Although you can gain a great deal of support from friends and family, sometimes you need to speak with a pro in private. Having a therapist by your side throughout your IVF treatment can take a lot of stress off your shoulders.
And please don’t think for a moment that seeing a psychotherapist makes you weak! Quite the opposite; seeking help when you genuinely need it is a sign of strength and maturity. Speaking with a registered counselor can help you safely navigate the many emotions IVF treatment entails.
Remember: IVF Self-Care Is Not Selfish!
Unfortunately, many people equate the term “self-care” with spa sessions. In reality, self-care has little to do with pampering. When you’re going through emotionally charged experiences like IVF, you can’t survive without regular self-care sessions.
Although I always stress the importance of building your village, you have to set clear boundaries with friends and families. When you’re reviewing your monthly schedule, always be sure you have plenty of self-care time. Whether you fill this time with journaling, yoga, or taking a relaxing bath, you should treat yourself well!
If you ever have any questions—or if you just need someone to vent to—please reach out to me on social media. You could also follow my IVF journey on Instagram!
