Resources
Intimacy During Infertility – Is that possible?
We hear all the time from patients about the pressures that infertility places on a relationship when you’re trying to conceive. Sadly, the clinical nature of the process can impact a couple’s intimacy, when it makes the experience of sex stressful rather than enjoyable and unifying.
It’s important to find ways to connect as a couple without the pressure of trying to get pregnant, equipping you to better love and support each other in the months to come.
For this reason, we’d like to suggest that you take tonight off and go on a date. Yes, life is busy and you have responsibilities, but this is important. If you have plans tonight then book it in for your next free evening. You need a night where your only responsibility is to have fun. And no; take-away and Netflix does not count.
Need some inspiration?
- Break out the essential oils and give each other a massage
- Read a book to each other
- Go out dancing together like you’re 18 years old
- Go for a walk on the beach
- Relive your first date
- Go to the markets
You get the idea. Protecting against ‘burnout’ is one of the most helpful things you can do to improve your fertility journey. It will give you the energy and longevity to persist in treatment, which might be the thing that gets you across the line, so to speak.
Single?
If you are undergoing the stresses of fertility treatment alone, it is even easier to feel isolated. The sad truth is that fertility issues go largely unacknowledged in our society, and it can be awkward to let friends and family know what’s going on.
However, don’t underestimate the value of your support network in the months to come. Take time to catch up and reconnect with your loved ones, so it will be easier to reach out for help if and when you need it. Plan dinner with your parents, or a one-on-one coffee date with a close friend.
You can do this alone, but we’re guessing you don’t need any extra pressure on your shoulders.
