Recently, a rash of articles discussing the way stress negatively affects fertility treatment outcomes found their way across the Internet. While the topic is always medically fascinating (e.g., the way that stress causes our bodies to go into “survival” mode and shut down non-critical functions), it beckons the real question:
If this is true, what can we do about the core problem – STRESS?
There are numerous ways to deal with stress, whether or not you’re undergoing fertility treatments. And there is no “right” or “wrong” way (as long as what you’re doing is emotionally and physically healthy, that is.) You simply have to try different techniques until you find those that work for you.
In the past, we’ve found that some excellent stress relievers for women and men undergoing fertility treatments include:
- Taking up moderate physical activity. (Please speak with your primary care physician and fertility specialist to ensure you’re not overexerting yourself.)
- Switching to a healthier, more nutritious diet.
- Taking breaks to do something you love – watching a movie, going to the spa, window shopping, etc.
- Spending time with friends and/or family.
- Taking “mini vacations” during weekends.
- Getting massages on a consistent basis.
- Volunteering at a local nonprofit. (Doing something for others always helps!)
- Cleaning the house. (Yes, this can be a stress reliever for some folks!)
- Reading and/or journaling for a few moments every day.
- Attending religious services periodically (even if you’re not a member of the church or organization.)
- Turning off the Internet and TV after a certain point each evening to spend time together doing something quiet and fun.