Previous and Existing Mental Health
Mental health significantly impacts one’s ability to conceive, with studies linking conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress to irregular menstrual cycles and fertility challenges. While the pregnancy journey is straightforward for some, for others, it can be a time of emotional and psychological strain, highlighting the importance of mental health care in the conception process.
Common Signs, Symptoms, and Predictors
- Some mental health disorders such as anxiety, clinical depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders can lead to irregular or shortened periods.
- High levels of chronic stress may disrupt the menstrual cycle, affecting ovulation and making it harder to conceive. The sources of stress can come from work, personal relationships, and more.
- Some medications for mental health conditions might impact fertility, though the benefits of taking them may outweigh these risks.
Solutions
- Engage in a pre-pregnancy checkup to discuss mental health and its management during conception efforts.
- Work closely with healthcare providers, such as your GP or psychiatrist, to adjust or select medications that support mental health without unduly compromising fertility.
- Studies highlight the effectiveness of interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy in reducing distress and potentially improving pregnancy rates, with some research suggesting significant decreases in anxiety and increases in pregnancy rates following psychological support.
How Can We Help?
We can help you attain a mentally and emotionally sound conception through:
- Direct support for mental health issues affecting fertility, utilizing brief, effective interventions.
- Collaboration with healthcare providers for optimal medication management, balancing mental wellness and fertility.
- Implementation of stress reduction programs, leveraging psychological support to potentially increase pregnancy rates.
- Comprehensive perinatal support, including doula services, to assist through pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care.
- Ongoing emotional guidance throughout the fertility and pregnancy journey, offering a steady source of support and understanding.
Spring integrates a wide array of services, including psychological support, medication guidance, stress management techniques, and extensive perinatal services like doula support, to assist clients on their path to parenthood. Our approach is informed by the latest research, ensuring each individual’s journey is supported with the utmost care and expertise.
Our therapists are available for in-person, online, or telephone counselling at several locations in Alberta. Contact us to learn more.
