Mind/Body techniques have been receiving more attention lately. More and more people going through infertility are turning to Alice Domar's technique to see if they can improve their fertility health. It has piqued the curiosity of many, but the fertility program is still not fully understood by the majority hearing about it. The program has done amazing things in helping those struggling with infertility. Understanding the process might help you succeed in building your family as well!
What is the Mind/Body program?
The program is a 10-session group therapy session with a certified psychologist who understands infertility inside and out. The goal is to create a supportive environment that is an escape from the well-meaning but intrusive questions couples receive when they are TTC. The goal is to teach couples how to take back control of their bodies and their lives. This is done by learning to cope with infertility with a positive outlook and by educating themselves on lifestyle habits to increase the chance of fertility.
How did this start?
The Mind/Body program was created by Alice Domar and is offered at the Domar Center situated inside of the Boston IVF Center as well as through trained therapists across the country. Domar created the program because of the negative impact stress has on the fertility process. For those struggling with infertility, the smallest inquiries about pregnancy or going through family-oriented holidays can pack on the stress. Domar understood this and wanted to come up with a way to lower this stress and create a program that balances emotions while improving physical and mental well-being to promote a healthy environment for fertility.
Does it actually work?
Yes it does! Fertility education and a coping techniques can do wonders for improving your infertility odds. According to the Domar Center, there have been significant reductions in anxiety, depression and hostility from participants of the program. Fifty-five percent of infertile women who met regularly in the Mind/Body program conceived within six months after the program ended. Compared with the 20 percent success rate from women who did not participate, this improvement is drastic.
Should I consider it?
Absolutely! Simply going to a place that offers support is going to greatly improve your health and happiness. It is hard to talk about your infertility struggles with people who aren't going through it or never have. No one quite understands. Plus the questions from friends and family can cause stress and unhappiness. Participating in a Mind/Body class will give you a place where people understand firsthand and want to do everything they can to center your emotions. The support alone will give you a better way for coping with your infertility journey. Plus the education you receive could make a huge difference to your family building.
Finding a Mind/Body program near you is simple! There are facilities all over the country offering Domar's psychologist program along with other infertility support groups and educational classes. Contact your local IVF clinic to get a referral to a program specialist.
Nicole Witt is the creator of Beyond Infertility, a community support site and online magazine geared towards families who have gone through infertility. You can visit the website at BeyondInfertility.com. She is also the owner of The Adoption Consultancy.
