Coping With Infertility

The New York Times recently reported that the fertility rates in the United States have reached an all-time low. As a Viera, Florida fertility specialist, we find this extremely concerning. Fertility is an important aspect of many couple’s lives. For some couples the desire to have children and raise a family is the pinnacle of their relationship, and being unable to do so is more than devastating. At Viera Fertility Center we do all we can to facilitate pregnancy, however we understand that it is just as important to be there for them when pregnancy is not possible.

The Emotional Toll of Infertility

Hormones are one of the most powerful chemicals in the human body. They trigger every change in human cells and drive reproduction. Aside from having an impact on your ability to reproduce, they also have a significant effect on your emotional state. Being deprived of or having an excessive amount of progesterone and estrogen can cause a woman severe emotional distress. Coupled with the obvious devastation that accompanies the disappointment of miscarriage and missed conceptions, infertility is an emotional roller coaster that can take a toll on a couple.

Fertility is an interesting subject in our society. It’s a bit taboo to talk about, yet one of the driving forces of our culture. Wanting a child but being unable to have one can make couples feel less than, and extremely jealous when their friends, family members, and even acquaintances become pregnant. We are taught that pregnancy is easy to come by, and these beliefs are reinforced when we see so many “accidentally” become pregnant. The fact of the matter is that conceiving a child is nothing short of a miracle. The exact mix of hormones must have created a perfect situation in a physically ready body for an embryo to develop. When couples have difficulty conceiving it can put strain on their relationship, which is why it is so important to keep lines of communication open and realize that fertility treatment is just the beginning of the most difficult yet rewarding thing you’ll ever do.

Treating and Coping with Infertility

Fertility treatments are not easy or non-invasive. On the “easy” end of the spectrum a woman may need multiple rounds of hormone therapy to create an ideal environment for conception. On the difficult end these hormones can be coupled with surgeries and physical implantation of the embryo into the uterus. Even after all that, pregnancy is never guaranteed. The treatments that are necessary to restore fertility can amplify emotions and make a miscarriage or failed implantation even more painful. It is important that couples who decide to move forward with fertility treatments understand how they will affect the moods and emotions of one another. Being sympathetic to each other’s feelings can be one of the most important aspects of successful conception. Even though it is so taboo to speak about fertility treatments, it is important to have a strong support network around you. Talk with your family and friends about the changes you are going through. Having more than just your spouse to talk about the trials and tribulations of fertility treatment can help patients keep a level head. Finally, you can always rely on the support of your Melbourne, Florida fertility specialist and his staff to be there for you to answer questions. Side effects, emotional highs and lows – we’ve seen it all. It is our goal to provide the most caring and compassionate care for our patients and that includes emotional support.

Treating infertility isn’t always easy. You may never do anything more difficult – except raise your children that is – but it is all worth it in the end. Keeping your spirits up with a strong support system can help you to keep yourself centered while you begin your journey to parenthood.