SGF offers the TTC community the following coping and thriving tips during these challenging times. We’re all in this together.
- Focus on what you can control.
Eat well, keep up your exercise and other healthy habits, take breaks in the day for fresh air, and stay active, physically and mentally. - Practice self-care and relaxation.
While the world hits the reset button, take this time to catch up on your reading (for pleasure), journaling, practicing meditation/prayer/mindfulness, or engaging in a hobby. Turn nervous energy into something positive and cross some things off your (at home) bucket list. - Stay connected to your tribe.
Set a goal each day to (virtually) reach out to at least one friend, loved one, neighbor, elderly relative, or former colleague, “just because.” You’ll be surprised how much personal connection can “fill your bucket” and bring fulfillment. Staying connected, even virtually, reduces feelings of isolation and is especially critical during times of uncertainty. Sometimes you’ll be the one providing support; other times, allow yourself to receive encouragement from others. Both can be equally fulfilling and meaningful. - Limit daily news consumption to keep your anxiety level in check.
It’s easy to become bombarded and “sucked in” to the news all around us; we recommend setting limits so as not to become overwhelmed and completely absorbed. The more absorbed you become in current events, over which we have little control, the less energy and time you have to offer the things you can control, like pursuing a goal, making time for friends/family, exercising, etc. - Tap into your inner strength.
Take stock of all of the challenges in your life that you have already overcome, and be proud of your resiliency. You’re stronger than you think you are. - Take inventory of your mental health regularly.
If you’re finding your anxiety level or depressed feelings are on the rise, don’t be afraid to reach out for professional help. Many mental health pros offer virtual consults that are often covered by insurance. - Use this time to make progress toward your goal of building a family.
While much of the world is at a near stand-still, SGF physicians are here for you and desire nothing more than to safely help you build your family. If you’re unsure if it’s time to see a fertility specialist, read these tips. If you’re a new patient and ready to schedule a virtual physician consult, click here. During a virtual consult, patients can seamlessly connect virtually ‘face to face’ with SGF physicians through their phone, smart phone, tablet, or computer, making it easier to make progress, save time, avoid travel, and keep distance and protect themselves and their community.If you’re an established patient and have questions of your physician, click here to schedule a virtual follow up appointment. Now is the perfect time to receive good counsel regarding preconception care and how to prep your body for a successful pregnancy. SGF has resumed FETs and other treatments in selection locations, so it might be an ideal time to discuss next steps with your physician. - Understand better the cause behind your struggle to conceive.
During this time, SGF has made many safety changes to accommodate a fertility evaluation in select locations. Fertility testing includes three simple tests for the female and one for the male. SGF advises testing of both partners up front before any treatment can begin, as infertility affects both partners equally. - Get your TTC questions answered by an expert.
SGF has many online and virtual learning resources available to new and current patients. Be sure to jump on a private webinar with an SGF physician host to get your questions answered, or follow us on Instagram and Facebook to be sure to catch our LIVE Q&A sessions with a physician expert. All events are complimentary and open to anyone, so spread the news. Also, SGF has hundreds of blogs, eBooks, on-demand webinars, and more—all vetted by the SGF physicians you know and trust. - Be kind to yourself.
You’ve been through a lot already. We know the waiting and wanting is fierce. It’s not easy. It’s not quick. To expect to put your hopes on dreams on hold indefinitely seems cruel. We understand, and many of us have been in your shoes. Stay strong, stay connected, be kind to yourself. We are here for you! #sgfsgtrong.
