How to prepare for the first IVF

Trying to have a baby is exciting and thrilling for some, but for couples who repeatedly fail to show two lines, trying to conceive causes considerable stress and worry. That's why, in today's article, we've decided to give you an insight into how to prepare for the first IVF without losing your mind.

We know, you imagined it differently. IVF? Those three letters were definitely not in your plans. But now it’s the only way to have the baby of your dreams, so there’s no choice but to take the first IVF route. It’s a big step, but all big things are much easier to manage if you have a plan and enough information. Let’s take a look at the most important ones for this:

What to expect when you start IVF

• It may not be easy, both physically and emotionally. So don’t rush your choice of clinic and choose one where you feel at home. Name the things that are going on inside you and don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help.
• You will ride a roller coaster of emotions. Emotions going up and down is normal. Some days you may feel excited, other days you may feel scared and worried that it won’t work out. 
• Not everyone will be understanding enough. It is hard to respond to the experience you are going through, especially for those who have never experienced anything like this. So try to express all that it means to you. You can also seek out a self-help group of other IVF warriors. They will understand you best.
• It’s a strain on the relationship. Even if your relationship or marriage is on a strong foundation, fertility problems can shake it up. Talk to your partner, nurture the relationship, and indulge in a weekly activity together that you enjoy. Set a time when you don’t just talk about the baby, and lest we forget… spontaneous sex “just like that” with no intention of conceiving a child will also do the relationship a lot of good.
• There may be a feeling that you are not in control of your life. Yes, this feeling is also quite normal, but it is important to understand that there are still things you do have control over. Seeking help and taking steps to follow the advice of a professional is definitely one of them.

And now for the practical part…

• Breathe. Learn to breathe slowly and deeply. If you feel anxious, take a deep breath in through your nose and out through your mouth. This basic technique will relax your body and help you to calm down mentally.
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Make sure you get enough sleep.
• Start taking prenatal vitamins (your doctor will recommend the best ones). Diet, specifically the micronutrients we give our bodies, plays an important role not only in trying to get pregnant, but also during the pregnancy itself.
• Talk to your friends and partner.
• Don’t forget about your hobbies. And taking care of yourself. Rather than focus on what you’re going through, focus on activities that help you relax.
• Equip yourself with just the right amount of information to make important decisions.
• Use only reputable and trustworthy sources when seeking information.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your doctor whenever you are unsure about something.
• Good accounts make good friends. A good clinic will give you a clear idea of how much treatment will cost right at the beginning of treatment. This will also help you feel a little more confident about the whole process.

Take care not only of the body, but also of the soul

Infertility takes its toll, both mentally and physically, so the number one principle is: be kind to yourself. Reduce the number of activities that place high demands on you. Make a list of the things that stress you out and cross off the ones that can now go on the back burner. Ideally, find your own strategy for managing IVF – fertility yoga, meditation, therapy or acupuncture are some of the proven ways to manage stress and the IVF process itself. Last but not least, it’s important to have the support of the people who will walk this difficult path with you. With patience, plenty of empathy and understanding.