Fertility Talk With Dr Abayomi Ajayi: Coping With The Stress While Waiting
Fertility Talk With Dr Abayomi Ajayi: Coping With The Stress While Waiting
Waiting to achieve conception can be extremely stressful and frustrating. You may find your mood swing from day to day; between hope, despire and anger. “Why should this happen to me? Many people find their own way of coping with the pressures and disappointments, but generally we would advice on the following;
Realize The Extent Of The Problem: Realize what you are going through is a life crisis. This maybe one of the hardest situations you will ever face. It calls to question the most fundamental expectations you have for yourself, your body and your relationship. It is not unusual to feel a sense of loss and to be overwhelmed.
Educate Yourself: Read as much as you can and do not be afraid to ask questions. Talking with your doctor and understanding your options enables you to make informed choices.
Keep Your Perspective: Fertility has no guarantees. Try to maintain an open mind while considering your options.
Don’t Blame Yourself: Negative thoughts make things worse. When you start thinking “like that could have or should have been”, try to remind yourself that few fertility problems are entirely one partner’s fault in terms of what one did or did not do. Many problems are determined by inheritance and many others by multiple factors, related to the couple as a whole. So try to concentrate on the present and the future.
Maintain Your Emotional Partnership: Do not take it out on your spouse. Rather, sympathize with each other and be sensitive to your collective emotional needs. This will strengthen your relationship whilst you wait.
Decline Invitation To Baby Focused Activities: If certain gatherings or celebrations such as christening or birthdays are too painful, take permission to skip them. Family and friends will understand.
Get Support: Discussing your feeling is therapeutic. Find others with the same issues, who understand your problems and are willing to help. This you will readily find in joining a support group.