Going through fertility challenges can be a rollercoaster of stress and emotion. When things go well, you may first experience a surge of optimism and joy. But if the journey becomes rocky, these feelings can quickly shift to fear and anxiety. When your emotions run high, they can affect your health physically too – disrupting your sleep and causing restlessness, or even panic attacks. 

Fertility struggles over time can feel like a grieving process. Every missed or unsuccessful opportunity can bring about feelings of sadness that can lead to depression. These emotions can strain your personal relationships and cause unwanted tension. Feelings of guilt and shame are also common because of societal expectations around childbearing. For many, the emotional rollercoaster can make you feel lost and out of control. 

Handling all of these emotions is challenging, but it’s important to remember that support is available. You’re allowed to feel what you’re feeling, and mental health professionals can provide guidance during this difficult time. Bear in mind that there are various paths to having a family and living a meaningful life – whether it’s through different family building options or pursuing other passions and nurturing your relationships.

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