Get the Facts on Infertility
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It's Pretty Common…and Stressful
Infertility is a very common condition and affects approximately one out of six couples of childbearing age. Contrary to popular opinion, men are just as likely as women to be the cause of infertility. Fortunately, modern treatment leads to pregnancy in more than 50 percent of individuals and couples who seek out treatment.
Unfortunately, infertility can be a highly stressful experience. One third of women going through infertility report similar levels of anxiety and depression to women with cancer, HIV or heart disease. Procreation is the strongest instinct in the animal kingdom, stronger even than survival. Combine this instinct with the social pressure to have a baby, and the stress can be intense.
How to Re-Connect With Your Spirit
There are a number of things one can do to relieve distress during infertility. Examine the people in your life and make sure they provide support to you. Ask your doctor about joining a support group to relieve feelings of isolation. Research has shown that women who attend support groups have significantly higher pregnancy rates when compared to women who receive comparable medical care but don't attend a group. Online communities like www.EmbracingWomensHealth.com are great resources to use for talking to others that are going through the same stressful time.
Infertility is a very common condition and affects approximately one out of six couples of childbearing age. Contrary to popular opinion, men are just as likely as women to be the cause of infertility. Fortunately, modern treatment leads to pregnancy in more than 50 percent of individuals and couples who seek out treatment.
Unfortunately, infertility can be a highly stressful experience. One third of women going through infertility report similar levels of anxiety and depression to women with cancer, HIV or heart disease. Procreation is the strongest instinct in the animal kingdom, stronger even than survival. Combine this instinct with the social pressure to have a baby, and the stress can be intense.
How to Re-Connect With Your Spirit
There are a number of things one can do to relieve distress during infertility. Examine the people in your life and make sure they provide support to you. Ask your doctor about joining a support group to relieve feelings of isolation. Research has shown that women who attend support groups have significantly higher pregnancy rates when compared to women who receive comparable medical care but don't attend a group. Online communities like www.EmbracingWomensHealth.com are great resources to use for talking to others that are going through the same stressful time.
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.
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