New Delhi: Infertility rate is rapidly increasing in India. As per reports, 27.5 million couples actively seeking to conceive suffer from infertility. The condition affects both men and women equally at least with a rate of 10 to 15 per cent of married couples experiencing fertility problems at some point. Behind the rising infertility cases, there are multiple driving factors, such as poor lifestyle, genetics and chronic diseases. For parents having a baby is a huge dream and In vitro fertilization (IVF) can be a ray of hope. Within the field of fertility, where science and technology have been so advanced typically takes centre stage but many times the mental health factors and impact on reproductive health are overlooked.
The demand for IVF treatments has increased as more couples face challenges with infertility. This rise in the need for IVF treatments, along with increasing awareness and acceptance of such treatments and their promising success rates that offer hope to couples struggling with infertility, has led to various advances in available technologies. While, integrating mind, body, and soul practices into IVF treatment plans acknowledges the complex interplay between these components and their impact on fertility. Studies show a positive connection between acupuncture and fertility. Acupuncture has been proven to improve pregnancy rates among women.
On World IVF Day, Dr Suma Varsha, IVF Specialist, Ferty9 Fertility Center, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh shared with News9, “With more couples than ever turning to IVF, there’s a clear need for medical treatments that not only aim for success but also consider the physical, emotional and psychological journey of those involved. This rise in IVF demand highlights the many challenges couples encounter when trying to conceive. It emphasises the need to support their overall well-being throughout the process.”
Mind: Psychological Support and Stress Reduction
Emotional Guidance and Support – It’s important to have a safe space to discuss and process the emotions that come with overall fertility treatment. Counselling and support from the counsellor are invaluable.
Stress Management – Techniques like meditation and yoga can be wonderful tools for managing the stress of IVF.
This helps to centre your thoughts and promote a sense of calm amidst the complexities of treatment.
Positive Thinking through CBT – Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can be particularly helpful in transforming how you handle emotional challenges, turning overwhelming thoughts into more manageable ones, which can make a big difference in your overall outlook and resilience.
Body: Physical Health and Treatment Optimisation
Nutrition-Rich Diet – A balanced diet including all required vitamins and antioxidants is important. Omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, and coenzyme Q10 have been shown to improve egg quality and overall reproductive health for females.
Moderate Exercise & Activity – A moderate amount of exercise or yoga not only helps with stress but also helps in strengthening the pelvic floor and contributes to overall reproductive well-being. However, it’s important to consult with your doctor to tailor the exercise regimen to individual needs during IVF treatment.
Soul: Emotional and Spiritual Well-being
Yoga – Incorporating yoga into the daily routine can help align the mind and body, promoting relaxation and stress relief. Specific yoga poses are known to enhance reproductive health by improving pelvic blood flow and balancing hormone levels.
Spiritual Practices – For many, spiritual activities or rituals (praying, meditating, and attending religious programs) can provide profound peace and hope during challenging times. These practices can be tailored to fit personal beliefs and practices.
Art and Music Therapy – Engaging in creative activities can be therapeutic. They help express emotions non-verbally, reduce stress, and elevate mood, thereby potentially improving the outcomes of fertility treatments. Also, Music has been scientifically shown to lower stress hormones in our body, such as cortisol, which can be particularly high during IVF cycles. Listening to calming music can also help create a peaceful environment, easing the stress associated with fertility treatments.
Combining these approaches into a comprehensive treatment plan can help individuals feel empowered and supported throughout their IVF journey.
By addressing these aspects, not only can the stress associated with IVF be reduced, but it can also potentially improve the outcomes by fostering a more positive environment for conception. This holistic approach supports not just the physical process of IVF but also promotes overall health and well-being, crucial for patients navigating the challenging journey of fertility treatments.
The demand for IVF treatments has increased as more couples face challenges with infertility. This rise in the need for IVF treatments, along with increasing awareness and acceptance of such treatments and their promising success rates that offer hope to couples struggling with infertility, has led to various advances in available technologies. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
