12/06/2023
Since starting my own fertility journey a few months ago, there's one word I've heard so many times it makes me want to go crazy! If you have a loved one who is TTC, you may want to think twice before using this word.
That word is "Relax"
While staying relaxed and reducing stress is certainly good advice for anyone struggling with infertility, telling your loved one to "just relax" often comes across as dismissive, even when said with the best intentions.
It's also misguided. You never know what the root cause of someone's infertility may be, and many cases require action. For example, if scar tissue is blocking fallopian tubes, no amount of relaxation will fix that. It requires action- smart steps to be taken to combat the problem.
Often there are several life changes that need to be made while TTC. Diet needs to change, hormones need to be balanced, the reproductive system needs to function optimally. This requires research and effort.
If you have a friend or loved one who is TTC, rather than tell them to "just relax", instead support them in their changes and be a listening ear through the challenges. This will actually help them relax and feel confident, rather than feeling dismissed and misunderstood.
If you are TTC and tired of hearing people tell you to relax, know that it's ok to do the work, to take the reins, to do what you need to in order to bring your body to a healthy state. And once you've done all you know you can do, then it will be time to allow yourself to relax and trust in your body.