Motherhood is a greatly emphasized culture in India. It is seen as one of the highest callings that a woman must aspire to. Achieving pregnancy is thus a vital milestone that ticks off this gendered expectation. Or else, infertility is seen as a mark of disgrace in the country. It brings about shame upon the couple and the family. Society holds the woman at fault in most cases. The personal desire to become a mother is also curbed due to several biological reasons. This is why failure to conceive is linked to stress and clinical depression.
The good news is that there are ample reproductive techniques available. But the procedures can be overwhelming when topped with emotional fears of infertility. So, besides maintaining your body, take good care of your mental health while ongoing infertility treatment.
1. Infertility Counselling
Women might feel less feminine. Men start to feel less masculine. These are the common side-effects of infertility that cause high levels of stress. It becomes difficult to concentrate or perform daily activities efficiently. A good idea is to get therapy with your partner. You can build a better bond, manage your thoughts and find the right community resources. Look for a professional counsellor at the best fertility centre in Delhi to get started.
2. Sufficient Sleep
Lack of sleep hinders your ability to think straight. You might get physically exerted that can directly impact your mental health. Insomnia can wreak havoc on personal relationships, ruin your mood and lead to anger and irritability. So, try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep. It can foster emotional resilience. The brain cells become more energized and active. You start to feel more positive, calm and experience a sense of overall well-being.
3. Take a Break
Try to refresh and relax in between work at frequent intervals. This will ward off negative thoughts and be at peace with yourself. Practise mindfulness, yoga and meditation. Spend some time amid nature. Talk to a trusted friend about your feelings. Feel free to get in touch with a gynaecologist at the best fertility centre in Delhi and vent. Talking out your concerns and relaxing the nerves can ensure a better headspace.
4. Eat What you Love
A healthy diet equals lesser mood fluctuations and more energy. Avoid refined cereals, carbs, processed meat and candies. Instead try to eat whole grains, fruits, yoghurt, seeds and nuts, a whole lot of fresh fish and chicken and olive oil. These can reduce depression and release endorphins. They are ‘feel-good’ hormones that reduce the perception of pain or trouble. The right food choices go a long way to boost the chances of pregnancy.
5. Build a Hobby
Spending time doing something you love is good for mental health. Pick gardening, pottery, journal writing, knitting, painting, cycling or swimming. Avoid rigorous ones like trekking, hiking or weight lifting. Appropriate engagements keep you distracted while taking your mind off the infertility treatment. Patients feel happier and have something to look forward to every day. This, in turn, minimizes chronic stress, loneliness and boredom.
Following these tips diligently can help you see better outcomes. Do consult your doctor at every step for restrictions on adding supplements or eating certain foods.
