[Soki]

...and NO, I don't mean "and then you'll get pregnant."

Despite what every busybody has to say about your treatment regime, eliminating stress, taking a vacation or just "stop trying" won't solve any fertility issues you aren't already aware of.

There are very few factors that stress directly effects regarding infertility. One of them is your poor hubby feeling the need to perform on demand. Stress is not erection inducing. The other is the potential to disrupt the woman's ovulation cycle. If you've gotten even a few steps into the world of fertility treatment, you'd be quite aware of when you are ovulating.

So.... Don't feel bad that you can't relax. Stress is a symptom of infertility treatments, not the cause!

You SHOULD, however, take that Carribean cruise because you just plain want to, no strings attached.

Stories of women going through every treatment then conceiving naturally while on a European tour are the RARE exception, not the rule.

[einstein]

A great suggestion there, Soki!! I did yoga when I was going through infertility issues. It really helped me to relax. I also walked my dog Jade A LOT. We walked every afternoon and I'd really take the time to walk and meditate.

I also got manicures, met girlfriends for lunch, and hung out with my DH. All of these things helped me to cope and feel more upbeat.

Karen

[downthedrain]

i listen to soothing music or read nice books. i often do breathing relaxation techinques i saw on the telly -helps to get me calmer

[JenBeth]

I am only in my second month of trying but its already been a roller coaster ride, so I am going to try to get into yoga or pilates to unwind.

[alisa]

Soki,

You are so right! Thanks for the good words. I think going through the IUI 2ww is killing me! I want to eat, cry, pout, get crabby and then the days are just so slow! The stress is horrible so then I worry that I'm doing THAT wrong too! Ugghh...

[Jenny3343]

I'll vote for the manicures, pedicaures, take yourself to the movies, or do whatever you can afford to do (financially) that makes you feel good about yourself. Sometimes renting my favourite DVD and getting a box of chocolates on a 'sick day' works wonders!!

[MissAmanda]

The OP made me laugh so hard.Thank you so much!

Sounds like a good reason to go on a vacation.