Healthcare professionals define infertility as the inability to become pregnant after at least a year of trying to conceive. For those who are over 35, the time trying to conceive is reduced to six months.
If you’re struggling with infertility, know that you’re not alone. Infertility affects an estimated 186 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation. And while most people believe that infertility only impacts women, men are just as likely to carry the burden. Infertility may be one of the most difficult things a couple will ever face. Research has shown that the psychological stress experienced by those struggling with infertility is similar to that of people coping with illnesses such as cancer, HIV, and chronic pain. In addition, medications used to treat infertility are also associated with psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and irritability.
Learning positive ways to cope with the stress and anxiety of infertility can be very beneficial to both your mental and physical wellbeing. Here are some tips that can help you.