Intended Parents

Coping With Failed IVF [5 Emotions You Might Experience]


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Becoming a parent can feel like an elusive dream after multiple in vitro fertilization (IVF) attempts, and the emotions tied to failed IVF can be incredibly challenging to process. The weight of a failed IVF cycle is often heavier than words can describe.

It’s important to recognize that these failed IVF emotions are normal, especially after investing so much hope, time and energy into building a family. Acknowledging these intense emotions is a crucial first step in the healing process.

In this article, we’ll discuss the common emotions that follow a failed IVF cycle and offer coping strategies to help you process these feelings. If you’re struggling to cope, reach out to our team — we’re here to help you explore your options and offer IVF failure support as you move forward.

5 Failed IVF Emotions

After a failed IVF cycle, it’s essential to give yourself time and space to process what you’re going through. This experience is deeply personal, and how you are feeling is valid.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common emotions experienced after a failed IVF cycle.

Grief

If you’re grieving after IVF failure, you might feel like you’re losing a part of yourself or the future you envisioned. It’s okay to mourn what could have been as you process grief after IVF failure. The emotional toll of that loss can be heavy, so seek support if the pain feels overwhelming.

Depression

Feeling depressed after failed IVF is not uncommon. The emotional investment and physical strain can lead to deep feelings of sadness. If you find yourself dealing with depression after failed IVF, talk about your feelings with a professional. You don’t have to go through this alone, especially if you’re depressed after multiple failed IVF cycles.

Anxiety

The uncertainty of what comes next can lead to anxiety after failed IVF. You may be worried about the future and whether you’ll ever become a parent. To cope with anxiety attacks after failed IVF, you can talk with a mental health professional and try mindfulness exercises and relaxation techniques.

Anger

It’s natural to feel angry after failed IVF. You’ve put so much into this process — emotionally, physically and financially. It’s understandable to feel upset when things don’t go as planned. Find healthy outlets for your feelings, whether through journaling, talking to a friend or engaging in physical activity to release pent-up frustration.

PTSD/Trauma

The emotional toll of multiple IVF attempts can result in failed IVF trauma. This could manifest as PTSD symptoms, such as irritability and isolation. If this resonates with your experience, it’s important to seek support. Processing PTSD after failed IVF often requires professional guidance.

Learn more about coping with infertility.

How to Cope After Failed IVF

When coping with IVF failure, it’s important to prioritize your emotional well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you recover after your experience:

1. Prioritize Self-Care

Recognize that this is a loss, and allow yourself the space to mourn. It’s okay to take time to heal; there is no deadline for recovery. Take things at your own pace and prioritize self-care.

2. Seek Professional Support

If your failed IVF emotions become too overwhelming, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who specializes in fertility struggles. Seeking failed IVF support from a mental health professional can make a big difference.

3. Join a Support Group

Connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences can provide comfort and solidarity. There are many groups dedicated to coping with IVF failure.

4. Talk Openly With Loved Ones

Sharing your feelings with trusted friends or family members can provide emotional relief. Don’t isolate yourself — let others help you through this.

5. Reach Out to Us

Our team is here to provide failed IVF support and help you explore your next steps. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need guidance on what to do next.

Moving Forward and Overcoming Failed IVF

Even if IVF isn’t working, your family-building journey is not over. There are still many ways to achieve your dream of becoming a parent. Hope is not lost, and this setback doesn’t define your entire path.

There are a variety of next steps available:

Gestational surrogacy is a viable option if IVF hasn’t worked for you. In this process, a surrogate will carry and deliver a baby for you created from an embryo that uses sperm and an egg from you, your partner or a donor. This option allows you to bypass issues related to infertility and fulfill your dream of becoming a parent.

Resources to Explore Surrogacy

If you’re interested in learning more about surrogacy, we have several helpful resources available to guide you. These comprehensive guides explain the process in detail, covering everything you need to know.

Whether you’re considering surrogacy for the first time or have already started looking into your options, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Fill out our contact form to learn more about building your family after failed IVF.

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