My Journey with Cushing’s disease
At 30 years old, I was fit, healthy and naturally a size 8–10. I knew my body well, which is why, when it started to
Embarking on the IVF journey is a profound and emotionally charged experience that requires more than just medical procedures; it demands a resilient mindset and emotional readiness. As women prepare to face IVF, they often carry with them the weight of past struggles, traumas, and fears. Here are some practical tips I use with my coaching clients to reset your mindset and get IVF ready.
A powerful way to reset your mindset is by creating a personal mantra or positive affirmation. A mantra is a short, meaningful phrase that you repeat to yourself daily, helping you foster a positive and focused mindset.
Choose a mantra for your IVF journey that resonates with you, such as “I am strong and resilient,” or “I trust my body,”. Mine was something along the lines of “My body is strong and healthy, and capable of getting pregnant. I welcome this medical treatment”. Recite your mantra regularly, especially during challenging moments, to reinforce positivity and self-belief.
In the midst of the uncertainty that comes with fertility treatment, it’s crucial to identify and concentrate on the aspects within your control. While you might not be able to predict the outcome of IVF, you can control your attitude and self-care practices. Embracing these controllable elements can empower you to face IVF with a sense of agency.
Similar to a birthing plan, creating a plan for your IVF journey can help you organize your thoughts, set goals, and make informed decisions throughout the process. Discuss the plan with your healthcare team, and be open to making adjustments along the way. Flexibility is key though because the IVF journey can be unpredictable, and being adaptable allows you to navigate unexpected challenges with a calmer mindset.
For me this meant going to blood test appointments as early in the morning as possible, and going alone. I asked my husband to come every single scan though, and to be on standby if I changed my mind and wanted him to come to other appointments. I also decided I would walk to work after the appointment, even if it meant being late, because I needed that time to decompress.
Feeling informed during the IVF journey can positively impact your emotional well-being. Make a list of questions you want to ask your consultant, nurse, or clinic receptionist. Seeking answers and clarifications can alleviate fears and uncertainties, allowing you to feel more confident about the path you’re taking. Nurses at IVF clinics have all sorts of little hacks to help, such as a different size needle, or a method of injecting yourself that may bruise less. Don’t be afraid to talk to them about what you are experiencing and ask for their help.
The IVF journey can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Seek support from family, friends, or online communities where you can share experiences and find comfort in the stories of others.
Making friends at the clinic can also be valuable, as you can become IVF buddies who offer each other encouragement and understanding. However, it’s essential not to tie your emotions solely to someone else’s journey; remember that each person’s experience is unique.
Facing IVF may bring to the surface past traumas and fears related to conception, miscarriages, or medical procedures. Consider seeking professional support through counseling, complementary therapy, or coaching to work through these feelings constructively, and make a plan for the future.
I was terrified of having intramuscular progesterone injections because the pain took me back to having Anti D injections after my miscarriages. I worked on switching this mindset from one of loss to one or welcoming it into my body to support my pregnancy.
Remember, resetting your mindset for IVF readiness is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself during your IVF journey, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Cultivating a positive outlook and emotional resilience will benefit you during IVF, no matter the outcome.
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