I am by no means a therapist, counselor, or mental health professional. I do think IVF patients strongly benefit from a trained professional. Here are some resources I have found to be helpful, and I have no formal relationship with these organizations.
- A formal therapist. Some specialize in women’s health, reproductive health, or infertility. Psychology Today is a great resource to find a therapist. This site can filter to browse by insurance.
- The Headspace app. They have a Fertility Library which I have found incredibly helpful, especially when grieving losses. They also have work outs, meditations, and advice. Some workplaces or insurances may include this as a service.
- Exercise. Physical and mental health are symbiotic. I found the “yin yoga” and meditation helpful on Peloton, especially when you can’t really exert yourself during cycles due to pain and/or growing ovaries. I hope they eventually come up with a work out series for those undergoing fertility treatments!
- Food delivery apps! When you are exhausted and don’t have energy to forage food, make a list for yourself on what your go-tos are, and let your supporters (partner, family, friends) know when and what to order when your tired. You may also have no appetite due to nausea. I recommend soups.
- Reddit! The IVF reddit pages have been helpful to search very specific questions. I would not trust it as medical advice, but it’s helpful to see other people are also in the same experience as you.
- Virtual or in person support groups. Your clinic may offer them, or they can be found at Resolve, The National Infertility Association
FET and me: An Information resource for IVF 