A negative result after one or more cycles of in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be painful. Especially because of all the effort put into the treatment. However, it must be remembered that this result does not define your path to motherhood or fatherhood.
The history, the learnings and the ways in which life is expressed, in which fatherhood is lived, can be many and all are valid in their different contexts and nuances.
At times like these, there are concrete steps and emotional strategies that can help you manage the situation, regain your balance, and decide what to do along the way.
Allow yourself to feel
It is human to feel a mixture of emotions after a failed IVF process, and it is part of the process to recognize these emotions and allow them to express themselves without judgment, as this is a key step in dealing with the process.
Talking to your partner, family members, a specialized therapist, or a support group can be of great help. These spaces should offer a safe place to process what you feel and receive comfort and understanding.
Remember that even though this has been the path chosen, at this time, you are not alone in the process. With you there is a medical team and a support network that have agreed to accompany you on this journey. Each person lives these experiences in a unique way. Do not judge yourself for feeling too much or too little, because the emotion lasts “little” or “long”, since there is no right or wrong way to deal with a negative outcome in an IVF process.
How long to wait for a new attempt after a negative result?
Time is relative to the physical and emotional state of the parents. If the negative result was related to an early gestational loss, you need to give your body and mind the time they need to recover. Generally, specialists recommend that this time be enough to allow the body to regain its balance and, also, for emotions to find their center.
In addition, this recovery period is an opportunity to conduct additional evaluations or make changes to the treatment protocol that may improve the chances of success in the next attempt. It is a time to heal and prepare the physical and emotional ground for the future.
Strategies for Maintaining Emotional Well-Being
Although the strategies to maintain the emotional state will depend on the history of the people involved, their belief system, and what specialists in psychological counseling indicate, there are some general recommendations that can be implemented, such as:
- Self-care: Prioritize activities that help you stop repetitive thinking and relax, such as meditation, gentle exercise, or just spending time with loved ones. Recognize their needs and give themselves moments of self-care, keeping in mind that their thoughts are a fundamental part of that self-care.
- Professional Support: Consider the help of a psychologist who specializes in reproductive health. They can provide useful tools to manage your emotions and open yourself up to the infinite world of possibilities.
At Fertivida, we understand how delicate and meaningful this process is for you. We know that every attempt is an act of bravery. For this reason, we offer you not only the most advanced fertility treatments, but also empathetic and professional support. Our commitment is to be by your side at every stage, providing you with the necessary information and support so that you feel accompanied and prepared to continue your journey towards motherhood or fatherhood.
