Shadows in the summer sun – coping with infertility over the summer break
Whether you’re taking a trip, relaxing at home, or working through the summer, one thing is certain - school is out and children are everywhere.
As many plan family trips, big family gatherings, and days out for together time, if you’re navigating infertility, the summer can be a time of quiet heartache and constant reminders of what’s missing. Unfortunately, infertility doesn’t take a summer vacation and that’s why Chana doesn’t either.
Here are some tips to help you keep your cool over the summer break:
Be selective with your social calendar:
It is okay to decline an invitation! Choose to attend events and socialise with people that will be supportive and understanding towards you and your needs.
Spend some quality time with your spouse
Exploring new places, trying fun activities, and doing things you both enjoy can help you connect in new ways and relieve some stress along the way.
Do what you love
The slower pace of summer is the perfect opportunity to take some time to decompress. Find some activities that you enjoy that can help you unwind. This can be different for everyone – Take a walk in nature; read a good book; enjoy a hot bath; try some meditation; join an art activity… something just for you that will feel refreshing and centring.
It’s okay to take a break from trying
The pressure to have a baby can often lead to long stretches of consecutive treatments without a break. Sometimes a break can be a chance to rejuvenate in body and mind. If you think you could benefit from a break and your consultant agrees it’s a sensible option, the summer can be a good time to pause between treatments to recharge.
There are no rules on the right or wrong way to feel
The summer will likely include some better and some worse days. Infertility is a tough journey to face and it’s normal to experience a whole range of strong emotions. Be kind to yourself! Remember that you can reach out for support to close friends, family or Chana.