Unexplained fertility can lead to unique emotional difficulties. Some individuals experience fertility with clear and addressable causes, but unexplained infertility does not provide couples with answers. In such situations, having healthy emotional coping strategies can help. Here are some tips to manage emotional distress when facing unexplained infertility:
Acknowledge Emotions
Unexplained infertility causes an array of emotions, including grief, anger, and jealousy. Grief arises from the loss of one’s expectations of being a parent. A lack of answers may cause persistent anger or frustration, and seeing others conceive a child without issue could lead to jealousy. These emotions might cause uncomfortable feelings, but acknowledging and accepting them may help with emotional distress management.
Creative outlets like writing may assist individuals in confronting their emotions during this time. Writing takes the form of journaling, poetry, and short stories. Journals allow individuals to think about their emotions and see them written down objectively, possibly leading to clarity or relief. Poetry and short stories help to create a meaningful connection between fears and expectations through a creative lens.
Practice Mindfulness
Anxiety is another emotion that may arise due to unexplained infertility. This anxiety comes from the uncertainty between test results and what the future may hold in general. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques are effective ways to manage the physiological and psychological symptoms of anxiety.
Mindfulness activities include meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and breathing exercises. Yoga is another viable option because it combines exercise and mindfulness. Relaxation and mindfulness techniques are a good choice because they can be done quickly when needed throughout the day.
Find Support
Those facing infertility may feel a sense of isolation. This isolation may exacerbate negative thought processes and increase emotions like grief and frustration. A support system may help improve an individual’s emotional state through connection and understanding. A support system comprises family, friends, and support groups. Family and friends may provide individuals with a close connection during difficult times. They also provide a means of distraction from rumination through fun activities.
Support groups are a way of interacting with others who are dealing with the same issue. Participating in groups can lead to a feeling of camaraderie. They can also introduce individuals to people who feel genuine empathy for their struggle, helping to mitigate emotional isolation.
Seek Solutions
Focusing on areas of life outside of one’s control leads to emotions like frustration and perpetuates anxiety. Focusing on areas of life one can control will help minimize such emotions. These can include setting goals unrelated to pregnancy, finding purpose in hobbies, or becoming closer to a loved one. Individuals should work with fertility experts and try the ReceptivaDx test to determine if they have high levels of BCL6, which is linked to inflammation and potential endometriosis. Working on areas of control can help individuals regain a sense of autonomy.
Get Help for Unexplained Infertility
There are many different options for alleviating distress linked to unexplained infertility. Through acknowledging and accepting emotions, practicing mindfulness, building a support system, and regaining autonomy, individuals may experience some relief. They should also seek help from professional healthcare providers. Explore our website to learn more about the ReceptivaDx test.