If you’re hoping to start a family, infertility is the last thing you want to deal with. However, if you follow the necessary steps with expert support and guidance, a successful conception and birth is possible with in vitro fertilisation (IVF).  

Sister Irene Damon, a Cape Town-based clinical nurse specialist, midwife and doula says IVF is considered for individuals or couples facing various fertility challenges, including: 

• Blocked fallopian tubes: Natural fertilisation is inhibited. 
• Ovulation disorders: Irregular or absent ovulation. 
• Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. 
• Male-factor infertility: Low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology. 
• Advanced maternal age: Women over 35 may experience decreased fertility due to ageing ovaries.
  Genetic disorders: When there is a high risk of passing genetic disorders on to offspring, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can be used in conjunction with IVF to select embryos without those disorders. 
• Previous fertility treatment failure: If other fertility treatments have been unsuccessful, IVF may be considered as the next step. 
• Unexplained infertility: When the cause of infertility cannot be determined through standard evaluation. 

If, after consulting with an infertility expert, you do decide to go ahead with IVF, be mindful that stress and an unhealthy lifestyle could create additional barriers to a successful pregnancy. “Staying calm and positive during pregnancy, especially after experiencing a miscarriage, can be challenging but is so important for both the physical and emotional well-being of the mother,” says Sr Damon.   

She shares some coping strategies for expecting mothers: 

• Seek support
  Surround yourself with supportive family and friends who can offer encouragement and understanding. Joining online- or in-person support groups for women who have experienced miscarriage or are currently pregnant can also provide valuable support. 

• Stay informed but limit exposure 
  Educate yourself about pregnancy but try to avoid excessive Googling or reading about worst-case scenarios. Stick to reputable sources of information and consult your healthcare provider with any concerns.  

• Practice relaxation techniques
  Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or gentle exercise into your daily routine to help manage stress and anxiety. 

• Focus on the present:
  Try to focus on the present moment rather than worrying about the future or dwelling on past experiences. Mindfulness can help you stay grounded and centred. 

• Communicate with your healthcare provider: 
  Open communication with your healthcare provider is crucial. Discuss your concerns and fears openly and ask questions about your pregnancy to alleviate anxiety and gain reassurance. 

• Take care of yourself:
  Prioritise self-care by eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. Taking care of your physical health can also support your emotional well-being.  

• Celebrate milestones: 
  Celebrate each milestone of your pregnancy, such as hearing the baby’s heartbeat or feeling the first kicks. Focus on the positive aspects of your pregnancy journey. 

• Consider counselling:
  If you’re struggling to cope with anxiety or fear, consider seeking professional counselling or therapy. A therapist experienced in pregnancy-related issues can provide valuable support and coping strategies.

“Remember that it’s normal to have a range of emotions during pregnancy, especially after experiencing a miscarriage. Give yourself permission to feel whatever emotions arise and be gentle with yourself as you navigate this journey.,” adds Sr Damon.  

Infertility and the IVF process also has its challenges for couples. Jody Bergstedt, who conceived her daughter via IVF, shares her tips for couples who are thinking of, or currently undergoing, IVF:  

• Approach it as a team. It’s going to be an emotional process for both of you, so always have open and honest conversations.  
• The husband should be compassionate. The woman’s body and mind will be going through a lot of strain. She will have mood swings, but he shouldn’t take it personal; defuse the situation and provide lots of love and affection.
  Engage in stress-relieving activities together. It will help you to take your mind off the process. I know it’s easier said than done…
  Be present and try enjoying the journey to parenthood, as these memories will stay with you forever.  

Words by: Shani Tsai