Even though seeking treatment for fertility issues can be an isolating, stressful and emotional process, it’s important to remember that help is always available.
Fertility SA counsellor Rebecca Kerner’s role is to help support individuals and couples navigate their fertility journey.
In this Fertility SA podcast series she talks about the emotional impacts of undergoing fertility treatment and provides some strategies to help individuals and couples manage their emotions during this time.
One of the first things Rebecca wants patients starting on their fertility journey to know is that they’re not alone, and they will receive support along the way.
“You’re not alone. It can be a scary starting point if you don’t know anybody going through it, but I can assure you, there are lots of other people seeking treatment too,” she explains.
How couples, and women and men individually, manage the emotional toll of fertility treatment can be very different, and that’s something Rebecca spends a great deal of time focusing on with her patients.
“It’s one of those things that’s quite challenging for couples going through treatment, as we [men and women] do have different ways of managing it.
“Part of my work is making sure that couples understand that although their feelings are different, they’re both ok.”
If you’re undergoing treatment for fertility issues, Rebecca recommends trying to look at what would make a difference for you and your wellbeing during this time, and keeping your mind occupied.
“It could be something as simple as taking the dogs for walk, going to see a movie, or catching up with a friend for a coffee.
“Infertility can become all consuming, so, just having your mind around other things that you could do might support you in going through treatment.”
Listen to the full podcast.
