For many couples undergoing fertility treatment, the festive seasons can be a handful. Social gatherings with friends and family can serve as constant reminders of children and pregnancy, adding to the stress of not being able to talk about seeking treatment openly. Avoiding these events, however, can lead to feelings of isolation. Here are simple tips to help you manage the season, enjoy the holidays, and continue your fertility journey with renewed hope.
Instead of avoiding these gatherings, there are simple things you can do to better manage them, make the most of the holiday, and continue your fertility journey with renewed energy and hope.
Give yourself a social media break
The festive season is when pregnancy announcements or photos of trips with kids feel like they are at an all-time high. If scrolling through social media becomes overwhelming, limit your screen time. It is a discipline, but you can do it. Another option would be to engage in activities where engaging on social media is impossible or limited, like physically playing a game.
Attend Only When You are Ready
You can always select which invitations to accept based on your comfort level, and once you are there, you are not obligated to stay throughout. Plan your stay ahead of time. Expect questions from well-meaning friends and relatives and have ready answers. A key thing to remember is that it is OK to say no to invitations and advice or suggestions while you are there.
Keep up Healthy Lifestyle
Even though the festive seasons can be a time to be merry, remember the basics of your diet and lifestyle. Moderate your alcohol and caffeine consumption. There’s nothing wrong with having a drink but be mindful of frequency and quantity. And limit your caffeine intake to no more than two cups a day. And there will be lots of food during this time. Remember to balance your indulgences, too. Avoid smoking, even socially. This applies to your partner as well.
Prioritize self-care
Ultimately, spending quality time together during the festive season is the most important thing for you and your partner. For couples on fertility journey, it is very easy to lose focus of your relationship with the person you love. The festive holidays are a perfect break in your fertility treatment routine. Spend this time focusing on each other and reconnecting. It could be as simple as binge-watching your favourite TV show, having a meal or exercising together.
Seek Additional Support
- Accessing counseling services offered by our fertility clinic
- Joining support groups for individuals or couples facing similar challenges
- Connecting with friends or family members who can provide emotional support
Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your emotional well-being during festive seasons. By planning ahead and focusing on self-care and your relationships, you can navigate these times more easily and comfortably.
This blog article originally appeared on the Virtus Fertility Centre Australia webpage.
