When you are trying to get pregnant, and you start your period again, it can be depressing. Here are some ways to maintain a healthy outlook and positive attitude during this trying time.
Don’t dwell on negative thoughts
When you pee on a stick and see another negative result, negative thoughts and fears may roll over you. They are just thoughts and fears. Remember it’s normal not to conceive right away. It takes most couples at least one or two year of trying. So don’t let your imagination run wild with ideas about why you might not be getting pregnant [1]. Instead try meditating or breathing deeply. Your breath will help relax your body, while stress can hamper attempts of getting pregnant [2].
If going to a baby shower or visiting with a gossipy aunt is a stressor for you, it’s completely okay to say no to those invitations.
Focus on the here and now
You are in limbo right now. The brain does not like uncertainty, so this period is psychologically uncomfortable. Especially for those people who feel the need to be prepared for everything and anticipate all possible difficulties. Try to put aside worries about the past and the future and focus on the current moment. Using mindfulness exercises has shown to increase the quality of life for women who are trying to conceive, by increasing their ability to practice acceptance and letting go [2].
Start with the simplest exercise: listen to your breath. Put a hand on your belly and your heart and feel your belly expand with each inhalation. When you feel that you are being carried away by your thoughts, calmly, without scolding yourself, return your attention to observing the breath [2, 3].
Enjoy the romance
Trying to concieve means having sex. Enjoy this time of your life when you get to pay attention to your body, what it enjoys and how to enjoy your partner’s body [1]. Instead of just thinking about getting pregnant, think of this new attention to having regular sex as a way to get to know yourself and your partner better [1].
