The weather is getting colder and holiday lights are starting to pop up everywhere. The holidays are meant to be a time of celebration and bonding with those you love. However, for those struggling with infertility, the holidays can be an overwhelming mix of emotions. It is understandable if you are struggling to maintain positivity while you enjoy your holidays with loved ones.
However, it’s important to remember that by making a concerted effort to stay positive, you can enjoy a more memorable holiday, all while increasing your chances of getting pregnant. Studies have shown stress can contribute to infertility, so focus on the positive things like family, friends and a strong support system.
Focus on the Future
When infertility issues start to get you down, remember what you’re going through isn’t permanent. Of those who seek fertility treatment, 30-40% conceive. While individual success rates depend on a variety of factors, including your age and health, advances in medical science have made fertility treatments more effective than ever before.
Instead of focusing on the present, concentrate on the future and the positive changes it will bring! If you haven’t yet had a consultation with a fertility doctor, do so right away. There is no better way to stay positive about the future than to take action now! If you’re already receiving treatment, talk to your doctor about your feelings. Fertility doctors understand what you’re experiencing, making them one of the best resources for a positive outlook.
Enjoy the Moment
Once you have children, the holidays will be all about them, so enjoy this pre-parent phase by spending some time with your significant other. Plan a special holiday date doing something that won’t be as easy when you have children.
Consider staying at an upscale hotel or having dinner at a five-star restaurant. You may want to go to a charity ball, fundraiser, show at the theater or another event. Whether you fly to The Bahamas for a tropical holiday or plan a staycation that includes visiting all the local hotspots, make this holiday about celebrating you and the person you love most.
Spoil the Kids in Your Life
Just because you don’t have children of your own yet doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the family-friendly fun of the holidays. For a bit of holiday fun, simply take your nieces, nephews, godchildren, or friend’s children out for a night on the town.
Once you have your kids in tow, you’ll want to know about all of the events that make the holidays special for them, including tree lighting ceremonies, parades, Santa meet-and-greets, and carnivals. This allows you to get familiar with what kids love to do during the holidays by “borrowing” some kids for an evening. Your relatives or friends will be thankful for the extra time to do their Christmas shopping, and you’ll have a blast practicing for parenthood!
Do Something for Someone Else
The holidays are often the best time of year to pay it forward by doing something for someone else. Whether your skills are in crafting, organizing, managing, or working behind the scenes, the holidays are a great time to find a volunteer opportunity that corresponds to your talents. Volunteer to plan or contribute to a fundraiser, organize a food or gift drive, or serve meals at a local homeless shelter.
You’ll realize that there is truth to the old saying about giving being better than receiving and the boost you’ll get from helping someone in need will put your mind in a more positive place. As a bonus, joining a charity group or volunteer organization is an excellent way to meet new friends.
The holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year. With a positive outlook and some planning, this can be the best holiday season you’ve ever experienced. If you focus on the bright side, you’ll reduce your stress levels, have some fun, and strengthen the relationships that mean the most to you.
