The IVF process can cause a lot of stress, anxiety, and mood changes. The treatment can be physically demanding, and the stimulating hormonal medication can cause mood swings. After all the efforts and anticipation, couples often feel disappointed if the IVF outcome is not what they expected. Ms. Marie Otsuka, a fertility nurse, advises how to cope and build emotional resilience when going through IVF.
Emotional Resilience and Professional Support in the IVF Journey
As a fertility nurse, Marie had seen and experienced the different emotions expressed by many couples on their IVF journeys. Most are high anxiety and stress intertwined with moments of disappointments and triumphs.
“While the IVF procedure is not new, it is new to every couple who is looking forward to starting a family with medical intervention. The uncertainties of outcome and the stages the couples must go through add to their state of mind,” Marie said.
“The years of waiting and trying to conceive for couples suffering from unexplained fertility can be very extremely frustrating and depressing. Deciding to go IVF thus represents their last chance at parenthood,” she added.
For most couples, infertility represents a major life crisis. Hence, it is no surprise that the projected emotions are similar in the grieving process. It includes denial, isolation, anger, frustration, loss of self-esteem, depression, resignation, and resolution before finally reaching acceptance.
Prepare and Accept
Marie said that fertility nurses are essential in this area because they are the first people the couple meets when they come for their first consultation.
“We give clear information about the treatment, helping them understand the whole process and address any questions they may have. It is to make them feel more confident and empower them to make informed decisions.”
She also said that even before the start of the treatment, during the first consultation, nurses would have identified cues and signs of their emotional struggles, such as anger or confusion.
“It’s important to treat the couple as a unit, not just as individuals, to help them feel more prepared and ready for IVF together. It is also extremely important to get the couples to the point of acceptance of their infertility before the ultimate treatment cycle of IVF takes place,” she advised.
Riding the emotional rollercoaster
“There are two particularly challenging phases during IVF treatment. The first cycle is often the most daunting because everything is new and can overwhelm the couple,” Marie said.
The second challenging phase comes if the couple faces unsuccessful attempts, particularly if they are approaching the end of treatment options.
“There will always be a degree of sadness amidst the disappointment. I spend extra time during this phase to help them maintain realistic hope while building emotional resilience,” she explained.
In addition to encouraging them to accept their unique circumstances and set realistic expectations, there were also signs that Marie had learned to recognise that the couples may need additional support.
“These experiences may reveal serious problems in the couple’s ability to handle stress or issues in their relationship. In such cases, they may need a referral to a psychiatrist or marriage counselor,” she said.
“It’s not a sign of weakness. Rather, it is a proactive step toward better emotional health for them.”
Practice Self Care
Starting a family is a life-changing experience, whether through natural or IVF. It is an experience that all couples cannot simply forget or dismiss despite the outcome.
Given that the IVF process can be physically and emotionally intensive, it is essential to practice self-care, such as regular rest, healthy eating, gentle exercise, and mindfulness. These can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy levels.
Additionally, self-care supports physical health, which is important for handling the effects of medications and procedures.
Marie suggests incorporating yoga and relaxation techniques to help one cope with challenges and remain resilient throughout the journey.
“Expressing emotions through open communication with each other. Understanding that these reactions are normal helps couples process them more effectively,” she added.
“Every couple’s fertility journey is unique. By journeying together with a sound of mind, body, and emotion, they can embrace the challenging journey with growth, learning, and love for each other.”
Building Resilience and Bond
“While the IVF journey can be challenging, I’ve seen how it can transform couples, deepening their bond and understanding of each other. As a fertility nurse accompanying couples on this journey, I am not only monitoring their medical procedures, but I am also supporting their life’s most profound journey,” Marie said.
Indeed, the IVF journey is often likened to an emotional rollercoaster for couples, marked by high stress, anxiety, and periods of hope and disappointment. Hence, the role of fertility nurses from the start of their consultation is an essential step in preparing them for what to expect. The IVF journey can be a cruise of hope, a stronger bond, and proper self-care, rest, balanced nutrition, and lifestyle.
Navigating the IVF Journey with Strength and Support
The IVF process is a deeply personal and emotional journey, often described as an emotional rollercoaster due to the stress, anxiety, and physical demands involved. However, with proper preparation, self-care, and professional guidance, couples can navigate this fertility journey with resilience and hope.
By focusing on emotional resilience, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining open communication, couples can strengthen their bond while coping with the challenges of infertility treatments. Fertility nurses play a vital role in providing support, offering guidance, and ensuring couples are informed throughout the process.
Remember, IVF is more than just a medical procedure—it’s a transformative experience. By embracing the journey with realistic expectations and seeking the right support, you can turn the challenges of IVF into opportunities for growth, understanding, and a stronger connection with your partner.
As Marie advises aspiring couples, “If the path is beautiful, confirm where it leads. But if the destination is beautiful, don’t bother about the path; just keep moving.”
