As the New Year gets started, it offers a time to look forward to the possibilities ahead. Struggling with infertility can be emotionally, physically, and financially trying. Taking this time to shift your perspective and create resolutions that help move you towards your goal of parenthood can give you a fresh start.

Making the Most of the New Year

Changing your attitude and taking positive steps can give you a sense of empowerment as you continue the journey to conceiving the child you desire. Consider implementing the following tips for 2012:

Reduce stress

No one enjoys dealing with infertility, but you can try to minimize the negative impact on your life, which may also increase your chances of getting pregnant. Relaxing through yoga, joining a support group, and leaning on close friends will enable you to concentrate on the positive in life.

Take time as a couple

While these suggestions may not directly impact the results of lab tests or in-vitro fertilization (IVF), they can have a definite affect on your relationship. Plan a weekend getaway, go see a funny movie, or find other ways to reconnect so that you can nurture the intimate connections you still share.

Explore all your options

While you may really want to experience the miracle of pregnancy or have a baby that shares your DNA, sometimes you need to consider other paths. Opening the door to possibilities such as donor egg, donor sperm, or a gestational carrier can bring you closer to holding your little miracle.

Keep the faith

Roughly 80 to 85 percent of couples struggling with infertility will conceive with the help of infertility treatment. That means the odds are in your favor. Though you may get discouraged by the arduous process, focus on the outcome: a healthy baby.

Although infertility can take a toll on you as an individual and as a couple, the New Year offers a chance for renewed hope and great expectation.

For more information, please visit www.lasvegasfertility.com. To schedule a consultation appointment, contact our office.

From October 31st to January 1, people are caught up with the festivities of the season. From trick-or-treating to family gatherings to cute photos of babies with bows, this time of year tends to have a heavy focus on children. When you are struggling to get pregnant, getting through the holidays can be tough. Understanding how to take care of yourself can help you enjoy the season and find some holiday cheer.

Tips for Dealing with Infertility and the Holiday Season

Give yourself a break
Wanting a baby and not succeeding in your efforts can impact your whole life. It’s hard to have much holiday spirit when you feel so discouraged. Acknowledge your feelings and cut yourself some slack if you don’t feel so festive this year.

Set healthy boundaries
Because of your infertility, family gatherings and holiday parties with young children may just add salt to your wound. Don’t feel like you have to accept every invitation. Put in an appearance, but let friends and relatives know that you aren’t up for a marathon holiday event.

Plan adult-only activities
Though Santa breakfasts and family tree-trimming parties abound, try to find alternatives for you and your partner. Plan a night at the symphony or treat yourself to a four-course meal at a fancy restaurant. These settings are geared for adults, so you won’t have to subject yourself to little kids and their parents.

Remember those less fortunate
When you are dealing with infertility, it can be difficult to see past your own pain. This time of year, many charities offer opportunities to help those in need. Stocking a local food pantry, serving a meal at a homeless shelter, or buying holiday gifts for a needy family can remind you that others are suffering too.

Although you may not have the one gift you desire, a healthy baby, having a plan for the holidays can allow you to make the most of the season and to focus on continuing your fertility journey in the coming New Year.

For more information, please visit www.lasvegasfertility.com.