The emotional journey of women undergoing IVF: Experiencing uncertainty, fear, loneliness and hope.

The couple wishing to have a child starts with dreams, but as time passes and the pregnancy does not come, hope is replaced by fear, anxiety and anguish. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of trying. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an innovative medical procedure that offers hope and a solution to countless couples facing reproductive difficulties.

The women undergoing IVF initially they may experience a wave of hope and anticipation. As the process progresses, they may experience anxiety, fear, and distress. The fear of failure, a possible miscarriage or any complications during the pregnancy can make its appearance. Precisely because IVF is a process characterized by uncertainty, possible multiple attempts, and unexpected obstacles, each unsuccessful cycle can bring about a sense of frustration, disappointment, and grief, compounding the emotional quagmire.

Often, infertility and the IVF process itself are one lonely journey, as women may feel that they alone bear the burden and responsibility. In addition, the couple's relationship can be tested, especially if the members of the couple face barriers to effective communication and have different coping mechanisms. Although friends and family may offer support, they may struggle to fully understand the emotional challenges that accompany this journey, which can heighten feelings of loneliness and isolation. This highlights the importance of connecting with other women on a similar journey through support groups.

The above feelings can have a strong impact on mental health, so it is vital that women undergoing IVF have access to specialist mental health professionals.

The role of psychologists

Mental health care during the assisted reproduction journey through the professional guidance of a psychologist offers:

– A safe space to express, understand and process emotions

– Effective stress and depression management techniques

– Strategies for dealing with difficulties

– Regaining a sense of control over emotional well-being

– Strengthening mental resilience

The Power of Support Groups

Support groups are a safe place for women to share their experiences of IVF, promoting a sense of community, understanding and support. Experiencing through connection with the group that they are not alone can alleviate feelings of loneliness, renew mental resilience and help them come out stronger through this journey.

If you are a woman on this journey, remember you are not alone!

There is help available through the support groups coordinated by Polina Flevari (Psychologist MSc & Existential Psychotherapist) and Maria Malapetsa (Mental Health Counselor & Systemic Psychotherapist).

For information & to book a place in the support groups:

6955 444 980 – Polina Flevari

697 480 9791 – Maria Malapetsa