Support - IVF

Having IVF can be emotionally and physically draining, but help and support is available if you need it.

Your fertility clinic will offer you an opportunity to talk to a counsellor, and you may find it useful to join a fertility support group or online forum for support.

Counselling

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that counselling should be offered before, during and after IVF treatment regardless of the outcome.

It recommends using a counsellor who is not directly involved in the management of the couple's fertility problems.

Counselling is a type of talking therapy that allows you to talk about your problems and feelings in a confidential and dependable environment.

It can help couples to understand the implications of treatment and offer support at a critical time, such as when an IVF cycle has been unsuccessful.

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) has more information about the benefits of counselling and how to access it

Unsuccessful IVF treatment

In many instances, IVF treatment is unsuccessful. Under these circumstances, it's a good idea to wait for a couple of months before thinking about trying again.

This will give you a break from the stresses of treatment and allow your body time to recover.

This break can give you a chance to talk with the clinic about the reasons IVF was unsuccessful, to talk to your partner about how you both feel, and consider your options going forward.

It can also help to talk to other people who have been through IVF. A support group or online forum, such as the HealthUnlocked IVF community, may be helpful.

Adapting to parenthood

Some couples who have successfully started a family with IVF can find it difficult to adjust to their new life.

It's important to get help from healthcare professionals, such as your fertility consultant, GP, midwife or health visitor, if you think you need it.

Read more about services and support for parents.

Contacting a fertility support group and talking with others who can empathise with your experiences can also be helpful.

Fertility Network UK and Fertility Friends both have online forums where you can find other people who have dealt with the same issues.