Taking care of mental health is crucial for people’s general well-being and quality of life, since being connected to our emotions in a healthy way and in a safe space helps us face life’s challenges with greater resilience, maintain healthy interpersonal relationships and lead a much fuller life.
Isidora Hernández-Rudnick Díaz, Psychologist at Women’s Clinic and Reproductive Medicine in Viña del Mar She explains that “in assisted human reproduction treatments (ART), the emotional side is not left aside. To begin with, the fact of having reproductive difficulties means a non-normative crisis within our life cycle. By non-normative crisis I mean an event or situation that is not expected in life that leads to a reorganization of life (as opposed to normative crises that are expected changes such as menopause, empty nest, birth of the first child, expected deaths, leaving school, etc.)”.
“Because of the above, this can cause a lot of psychological discomfort, since something that is supposed to be as natural as being a mother and/or father becomes something difficult, painful and sometimes taboo. For this reason, it is extremely important to have support, whether within the same couple, support network or with a psychologist,” adds the specialist.
In this context, Clínica de la Mujer offers support from psychologists specialized in the subject throughout the treatment of those who decide to seek a pregnancy through reproductive medicine. These are free consultations that are included for those who opt for the treatment. In vitro fertilization (IVF).
“We often provide support from the first consultation with the doctor, through negative and positive beta tests, through good and bad news, or simply when patients need it,” explains the professional.
“Although psychological support is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Accepting it does not mean that patients are weak or that they cannot handle this situation alone, but rather it is simply opening up to the possibility of being in a safe space that allows for emotional relief and support during the process of trying to get pregnant,” she emphasizes.
More hormones, more irritability?
One of the most common concerns of women or couples seeking help with assisted fertility to achieve pregnancy is that this type of treatment usually goes hand in hand with the administration of hormones, which in turn can cause irritability, mood swings, among other emotional imbalances.
Regarding this, the psychologist reveals that “when patients, in this case women, undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, for example, this involves the administration of many hormones to stimulate ovulation. Hormones, in addition to acting on the physical, also impact the emotional area. Many patients tell me that they are more sensitive, irritable, they cry easily and they take everything more seriously.”
“However, because doctors explain and talk to them in advance about what they might feel, patients tend to be prepared and this helps them to self-regulate and understand themselves. In the case where a partner is involved in the treatment, it is also very important that he or she understands what is happening and how he or she can support. This support varies from person to person and has to do with the relationship itself and their ability to communicate respectfully and effectively,” she emphasizes.
But what about people who already suffer from depression, anxiety disorders or other mental health problems and decide to start this type of treatment?
“First of all, people who are undergoing a period of psychopharmacological treatment should inform their doctor about their treatment. The way forward depends on what they are taking. There are many drugs that are not compatible with ovarian stimulation, for example. Now, you also have to know that, if you need to reduce or stop taking a drug, you cannot stop it overnight. Your treating physician (gynecologist and/or psychiatrist) should guide you through the process,” she adds.
“When a person knows that they will have to stop taking certain medications, it is essential to promote spaces for self-care, therapy or support. If they are in a relationship, for example, it is also vital to communicate what they are feeling and ask for support or help when needed,” the expert concludes.
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About Women’s Clinic:
Clínica de la Mujer y Medicina Reproductiva was founded in Viña del Mar in 1996 by specialists, and stood out for establishing the first Reproductive Medicine Unit in the V Region. We have a multidisciplinary team prepared to accompany and support all families in their quest to become mothers and fathers.
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