Episode 118: In this podcast episode I discuss the relationships between anxiety, depression, infertility and miscarriages. The studies, which I have included below, paint a very bleak picture. But there is much you can do to support your mental health and well-being while long-term trying to conceive. Two and a half million cycles of IVF are performed globally each year, yet fewer than a quarter of these are successful. Women undergoing infertility treatment experience the same level of stress, anxiety, and depression as women who have cancer, HIV, or heart disease. Research shows post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop in a third of women after miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Anxiety and depression rates are higher in women diagnosed with Endometriosis and PCOS. ​​Women suffering from depression, stress and anxiety are twice as likely to have problems conceiving, and women who have experienced at least one unsuccessful IVF cycle and had depressive symptoms before continuing IVF treatment experienced a lower success rate than women who did not experience depressive symptoms. Couples are more likely to stop trying to conceive, not commence or abandon treatment, due to emotional stress rather than financial constraints or a medical prognosis? Once you know the above it’s impossible to ignore the fact that if you are going through infertility, treatment or pregnancy loss YOU NEED TO PROTECT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH There are so many studies showing that alleviating the symptoms of stress and anxiety improves quality of life and makes it easier for women to become pregnant. Join us for a FREE exclusive class next Sunday at 8.30pm GMT that will unveil the secrets to understanding the part your mental health plays in your fertility and maximise your chances of conceiving this year. ⁠ The Science Understand the science behind the mind-body link and how it impacts both your mental and physical health and therefore your fertility. The Studies Utilise the research and studies that show that prioritising your mental health while trying to conceive greatly improves quality of life and can double your chances of success. The Tools I’ll be sharing HOW to start practising techniques from Sunday to support yourself. https://www.embracefertility.co.uk/free-class