Did you know that infertility affects approximately 18,356 couples daily? As couples are faced with infertility it becomes easy for them to place the blame on one another, feel guilty themselves, and struggle with an array of emotions. While infertility is a difficult time in life for many couples, there are some key things that can be done to help with these struggles. The following are three aids than can help couples through this difficult journey.
Communication
You must communicate effectively with your partner. There will be difficult days, days in which you don’t think anyone understands what you are dealing with. If you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, out of control, or isolated, know that you are not alone. The best way to cope on these days is to be open, honest, and tell your partner exactly how you feel. Try not to place blame on each other, but instead come together to support one another through this difficult process. You and your partner may also need to consider seeking guidance from a mental health specialist. It is normal to experience a wide variety of emotions while going through the struggle of infertility, and communicating those feelings effectively can help you through this difficult time.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition for both females and males is important for fertility and your overall health. A proper diet is paramount for being able to carry a healthy baby through a full-term pregnancy. Let’s look at what should be avoided and consumed by couples while trying to conceive.
Both females and males need to avoid the following foods:
Caffeine
Processed Foods
Red Meat
Soy
Refined Sugars
Simple Carbohydrates
Bad Fats
Couples should increase the intake of the following foods:
Water
Complex Carbohydrates
Protein
Good Fats
Whole Milk
Zinc
Vitamin C
Vitamin B6 (females only)
Vitamin E (females only)
Omega 3 Fatty Acids (males only)
Work with Your Doctor
Communicate with your doctor to come up with a plan together. There are many options for trying to conceive that only your doctor and/or specialist can help guide you through. Make an appointment and discuss your options openly. You will need to come prepared with a list of questions and concerns you and your partner may have.
It is important to know that often times infertility cannot be fixed instantly. It can be a long process with many roadblocks, but following these guidelines can help ease some of the burden along the way. Remember to keep communication open between you and your partner, make sure that proper nutrition is in check, and follow your doctor’s recommendations. With these three things in place getting through the difficult journey of infertility can be managed easier.
Danielle Pillans
Consultant, Sparrow Solutions Group
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