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Clomid for Christmas
How to Survive Fertility Treatments During the Holidays
By Teri Brown
Dr. Elizabeth Grill is an assistant professor of psychology in the departments of obstetrics and gynecology, reproductive medicine and psychiatry at the New York Presbyterian Hospital. She works extensively with people going through fertility treatments, and she understands the pressure they are under. Dr. Grill gives the following tips for helping couples to cope during this very trying time:
- Limit your participation in family celebrations. If your family's holiday traditions include children opening presents, you may want to come at the end of the gift opening, or skip it altogether. If you are feeling particularly depleted or vulnerable, there is nothing wrong with giving yourself permission to protect and take care of yourself. It is OK to say, "No, we really can't make it this year." If you want to limit the time and exposure to potential inquisitions from others, go for dessert but skip dinner.
- Give yourself protective space. If you plan to travel to spend the holidays with your family, consider staying in a hotel or with friends rather than with your parents or siblings in a home where all activities will focus on the needs and interests of children.
- Consider some degree of openness about your infertility. If you think you might be ready to share your experiences with family members, this could be the right time. You might speak to one or two members
ahead of time, and let them spread the word, or you can simply answer probing questions honestly. You may even want to explain to family and friends that you may leave early, come late or go for a walk if things become too overwhelming.
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