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The Mental/Emotional Aspect of Fertility 

These days, there is plenty of research and knowledge about fertility. Unfortunately, people still usually think that infertility is a physical issue affecting female and male bodies. 

When couples decide to seek help, suspecting they are having issues getting pregnant, the first things to address are physical exams, lab results and anatomical abnormalities. However, there is very little talk about the way infertility affects couples mentally and emotionally. Trying to conceive, and not being successful at that specific time, can create a lot of stress which becomes a vicious circle; not being pregnant creates physical and emotional stress which then stops the body from producing the right hormones needed to create a new life. 

In my experience treating patients in Orlando, Florida, stress is one of the biggest causes of fertility problems; as patients start getting negative results, they start becoming discouraged and they allow negative emotions to build up. They also have pressure from family members asking when they will have a baby. It also becomes difficult to hear pregnancy news from friends.

I feel that fertility treatments should be followed by visiting a practitioner that can address your fertility problems as a whole; not only looking at the physical body but also addressing the emotional aspects. Many patients drop out of fertility treatments due to high stress and anxiety; this is an issue that modern medicine and society are slowly accepting.

Patients should be empowered to manage their individual situations - this would provide a more successful outcome for both the patient and their fertility doctors. 

There are several ways to reduce stress and manage the mental aspects of fertility. Here are some ideas: 

· Communicate your feelings with your partner, be open and true about it and ask what he/she feels about the current fertility situation.

· Exercise daily and push yourself to create sweat and increase circulation in the body; this will produce natural endorphins which act as “happy hormones” that help with feelings of anxiety and sadness. Exercise will also help you with a good night’s sleep.

· Do your research and gather a team of practitioners that can support you physically and emotionally on your fertility journey; make sure they care about you by spending enough time listening and addressing your concerns. 

These three simple tips can make a big impact on your fertility journey. Everyone is different and has different needs; Catherine can create a personalized fertility plan, just for you. If you live in Orlando, Winter Park, Maitland, Baldwin Park, or surrounding areas, and are struggling to get pregnant, we can help! We also offer virtual options for couples who don’t live here in the Orlando area.

-> Contact Catherine at acuford@gmail.com for an initial consultation and to take control of your fertility story! 

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Orlando Acupuncture and Fertility Specialist

We offer virtual and in-person appointments in Orlando, Florida