Odds are you know someone who is going, or has gone, through in vitro fertilization (IVF) — an incredibly invasive and all-encompassing procedure that’s part of an already long journey to conceive a child from the best IVF clinic in Gurgaon. Each cycle generally takes about 2 weeks and requires daily injections, frequent ultrasounds, blood work visits with a fertility specialist… yeah, it’s tough.
What you can do to help
If you have a friend or loved one going through IVF, one of the best things you can do is offer yourself as an outlet of support.
While you can’t take away the stress, anxiety and frustration that often comes along with the IVF experience, you can send a care package full of products that can be helpful during this difficult time in your friend’s life. We’ve got ideas to get you started.
A calming candle
After a long day of medical treatments, it’s nice to come home to a peaceful environment made more relaxing by candlelight. Not only does this lidded, three-wick candle smell ah-may-zing, but it’s scented with lavender, which has been linked to a reduction in anxiety and depression, among other things.
An acupressure mat
These cushioned mats, which work similarly to an acupressure massage, can help relieve the aches and pains associated with IVF treatments, notes Trolice.
The mat’s surface is covered in spiky pressure points which, yes, look terrifying. Still, reviewers sing its praises: One describes it as “clearly evil, but extremely effective,” while another calls it a “bizarre fire torture mat provides great relief!”
A humorous mug
The experience of undergoing IVF is not for the faint of heart — emotions are high, days are long, and the whole process can feel very serious, to say the least.
That’s why it’s a great idea to give your friend something that will make them smile and lift their spirits, like this sassy mug.
A meal subscription service
Getting a fuss-free dinner on the table is no easy feat, especially after a long day of work, treatments, and social commitments at the best IVF clinic in Delhi. That’s where a subscription service like Freshly can come in handy.
Each week, your friend will get fresh, chef-cooked meals that can be heated and served in 3 minutes, delivered right to their doorstop. Unlike meal kits, all they have to do is microwave and enjoy — no cooking required!
Bath salts
A soothing bath at the end of a long day can help take the edge off and relieve some of the aches and pains your friend may be feeling from injections. Adding salts to a bath, like these from Dr Teal’s, can be a real stress reliever.
There’s no evidence that the body can actually absorb enough magnesium from Epsom salts to make an impact, but the smell is nice, and the silky sensation of the water will have them feeling more relaxed in no time.
A good book (and a good laugh)
As the title of this book suggests, it’s a comedic, self-deprecating take on the struggles that only those who’ve gone through infertility will understand. It honestly dives deep into the harsh and scary realities of the experience, while finding humor in the scenarios many women trying to conceive find themselves in.
If nothing else, this read is sure to remind your friend that they’re far from alone.
Takeaway
IVF is a tough journey, and it can be an isolating one at that. Let your friends know you’re there for them, whether it’s by lending an ear or surprising them with a thoughtful gift (or two). It’ll probably mean more than you know.
