Submitted by Laurel Fertility Care and Acupuncture Kitchen

Laurel Fertility Care patients who have participated in stress management programs have had higher pregnancy rates. Whether you’re thinking, trying, waiting, or wanting to pursue a fertility journey, here are seven methods of reducing stress. Keep in mind how interconnected these steps are. By completing one step, it’s much easier to finish another.

1. Join a support group. There are several online and offline support groups specifically for fertility, from ChoiceMoms.org, Dailystrength.org, to Laurel Fertility Care’s own Mind-Body program. Many patients that visit Laurel Fertility Care find this on-site care incredibly supportive and helpful.

2. Explore (and remember) your options. There are many paths to starting a family. The field of reproductive endocrinology is part science and part art. Whether you decide to try IUI, IVF, or use fertility medications, keep in mind that there are other options available. If no alternate options are being discussed with you, reconsider your current reproductive specialist.

3. Keep open communication. "Open communication is a key factor to reducing stress," says Dr. Collin Smikle of Laurel Fertility Care. "By informing your loved ones about your fertility journey, you will increase empathy and understanding among them. Also, creating open communication with your doctor and staff will put you more at ease and help you plan for your journey ahead."

4. Slow down. Take (and make) time to appreciate your current state. Many patients have found it easier to slow down by enrolling in yoga or meditation classes or by receiving acupuncture care. These are all great practices to relax and redefine your pace.

5. Believe and have faith. Every day tell yourself that it is possible to start a family. Maintaining an optimistic outlook can help dissolve the everyday worries and stressers. Keep in mind that the journey towards motherhood doesn’t come in a "one size fits all." Remind yourself that you will grow your family, even though the journey can be unknown.

6. Nurture yourself as you would [nurture] a baby. When a baby enters the world, the child is adored and cared for through affection, love, and unconditional care. Try treating yourself with this same approach. Care for your body by getting a massage. Research has shown that massage therapy works to decrease a person’s stress. Simply wrapping yourself in a soft blanket or asking a loved one for an extra hug helps to reduce stress as well.

7. Practice mindful breathing. "Breathing is a simple but profound way to reduce stressers immediately," advised Caylie See, L.Ac. of Acupuncture Kitchen "Be particularly aware of the pause between each in-breath and out-breath. This is a great moment of contemplation where your body takes the time to shore up for what you are going through. This can be especially powerful when feeling anxious, bored, scared, angry, or tense."