Going through fertility treatments takes up a lot of time in your life. Multiple doctor visits per week, injections, permanent bruises on your arms from all the blood tests, nausea, hot flashes… They take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. It’s important you remember to take care of yourself, as hard as that may be, during this time. Here, Dr. Russell Foulk at Nevada Fertility Center shares ideas on how to show yourself love during fertility treatments.

Journal

Writing down how you’re feeling during your IVF treatments can help you release pent up emotions, and later, if you need to go through it again, remind yourself that you have been through the worst and can survive (and thrive!) through anything. Dr. Russell Foulk says to take 15 minutes each day to write down a high point, a low point, and anything you’re feeling. Looking for some journal inspo? Check out these great finds from Bando.

Acupuncture

This Eastern medicine is a proven way to heal your ailments. We recommend Sharon L. Poon M.D., who if anything, can force you to take an hour or two out of your life to just relax. Dr. Russell Foulk says that “acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat fertility issues. It reduces stress and anxiety, balances the hormonal and endocrine systems, and positively influences the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. It also regulates the menstrual cycle and increases blood flow to the uterus.”

Turn on the TV

Sometimes, all you need to do is just zone out and watch Chip and Jo turn houses from drab to fab for a few hours. That’s OK! Bravo more your thing? There are literally endless seasons of Real Housewives to watch for hours. Get into the drama! It can help you forget your own… Even if just for a little while.

Say No

Don’t want to grab coffee with your friend? Say no. Don’t feel like going to that spin class with your coworker? Say no. You don’t need to feel guilty for taking time for yourself. According to a study from The New York Times, saying no more often can actually make you happier.

Open Up to a Friend

Going through fertility treatments can be lonely, and even though this blog is about self-love, opening up to a friend can be just what the doctor ordered. Open up to someone you really trust, who will stick with you through the toughest times. You never know, they could be going through the same thing.

Whether this is your first IVF cycle, or your 8th, Dr. Russell Foulk at Nevada Fertility Center is here to help you through this time. Feel free to reach out to us for more information on how you can practice self-love through IVF.