Infertility is cruel. Not only does it make trying to conceive really really hard, it can make you feel really really crappy about your body, your image and your self worth as a woman or man

In a recent conversation with our online TTC community, we heard from women who said that Infertility and the IVF process has had such a profound effect on their body image, influencing both their physical and emotional well-being, that they don’t feel themselves anymore. Some felt so let down by their bodies that they feel resentful, with one woman saying that she moved her full length mirror into the spare room and turned it to face the wall as she just didn’t want to see herself.

The conversations were heartbreaking, but resonated closely with us here at IVFbabble as we too have felt the negative impact that infertility has on our bodies during our IVF journeys.

So why does infertility impact body image?

1. Alterations in Self-Perception: As we know, experiencing infertility can lead to a shift in how individuals perceive themselves. Fertility challenges can create feelings of inadequacy or failure, affecting self-esteem and contributing to a negative self-image.
2. Body as a Source of Struggle: The inability to conceive can turn the body into a source of struggle, as individuals may feel betrayed or frustrated by their reproductive systems. The constant focus on the body’s perceived shortcomings can lead to dissatisfaction and negative body image.
3. Medical Interventions and Body Changes: Fertility treatments often involve medical interventions, such as hormonal therapies or invasive procedures. These treatments may result in physical changes, such as weight gain, bloating, or discomfort, which can impact how individuals perceive their bodies.
4. Social Comparisons: Society’s emphasis on traditional notions of family and fertility can lead to social comparisons, making individuals feel inadequate or “less than” if they are unable to conceive. This societal pressure can contribute to negative body image perceptions.
5. Intimacy and Self-Worth: Infertility can strain intimate relationships and impact an individual’s sense of self-worth. Difficulty in conceiving may lead to feelings of inadequacy in fulfilling societal and personal expectations related to parenthood.
6. Stigma and Silence: The stigma surrounding infertility may lead individuals to internalise their struggles and avoid open discussions. This silence can exacerbate feelings of isolation and negatively impact body image, as individuals may believe they are the only ones facing these challenges.
7. Emotional Toll on Appearance: The emotional toll of infertility, including stress, anxiety, and grief, can manifest physically. Stress-related changes in appearance, such as skin conditions or changes in weight, may further contribute to negative body image perceptions.
8. Loss of Control: Infertility can create a sense of loss of control over one’s body and reproductive capabilities. This loss of agency can lead to feelings of frustration and powerlessness, further impacting body image.
9. Coping Mechanisms: Individuals facing infertility may adopt various coping mechanisms, including unhealthy behaviours related to body image, such as extreme dieting or excessive exercise. These coping strategies may exacerbate physical and emotional challenges.

So how can you turn the negativity around?

Embracing self-love during the journey of infertility involves various practices that contribute to a positive relationship with your body. If you can, try some of these suggestions to cultivate love for your body:

1. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Counteract negative thoughts about your body by questioning their origin, examining supporting evidence, and reframing them. Avoid seeing your body as broken or flawed, and instead, focus on understanding and appreciating its resilience.
2. Praise Your Body: Despite initial discomfort, verbally acknowledge positive aspects of your body. Concentrate on parts you love or find strength in, appreciating their functions. Engaging in this practice, especially with children or during physical activities, fosters a more positive perception of your body.
3. Positive Affirmations: Combat negative statements with positive affirmations. Replace thoughts like “my body is broken” with uplifting statements such as “I love my body,” “My body is strong,” or “My body is amazing.” Start each day by affirming one positive aspect when looking in the mirror.
4. Proper Nourishment: Provide your body with nourishing foods that energise and uplift. Pay attention to hunger signals and ensure your body receives the sustenance it needs. Nourishing your body is an act of self-care that contributes to overall well-being.
5. Rest: Acknowledge the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of trying to conceive. Listen to your body and prioritise self-care by allowing it the rest it requires. Adequate sleep, typically 7-9 hours, becomes even more crucial during fertility interventions.
6. Movement: Engage in physical and mental exercises as they can positively impact both your body and mind. Regular exercise contributes to overall well-being and can be a valuable outlet for managing stress associated with infertility.
7. Mind/Body Exercises: Incorporate mind/body exercises that combine breath work, mental focus, and body movement. Practices like yoga, tai chi, grounding exercises, or progressive relaxation can enhance the mind-body connection, promoting a sense of balance.
8. Seek Professional Help: Be aware of signs that may indicate the need for professional assistance. If infertility triggers disordered eating behaviours, such as restriction, bingeing, purging, or other forms of self-punishment, seeking help from a professional is crucial. Addressing eating disorders and body image concerns is vital for mental and physical well-being.

We would love to hear how you feel about your body. Are you coping? Have you managed to avoid the negative impact infertility can have on your body? Drop us a line at info@ivfbabble.com.

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