Tag: Mental Health

Still, a hushed and taboo topic – almost 1 in every 6 couples have fertility issues in the UK-that’s about 3.5 million. The global infertility rate is increasing as people choose to have children later in their lives, with the average age to have a first child now 30.7 years in the UK. This means that fertility treatment is becoming more and more common, so the need for fertility benefits as support is more important than ever. Infertility and the fertility treatment journey can be a roller coaster, both emotionally and physically. Almost 90% of people experience depression as a result of infertility. Over 40% do not disclose that they are undergoing fertility treatment to their employers fearing that it would negatively impact their career prospects. Here are a few recommendations on how you can support your employees undergoing fertility treatment and challenges better: 1. Help people understand the basics about their fertility. Up to 59% of respondents in a Fertility Network UK survey felt their employer would benefit from education about fertility and treatment options to help better understand and support the needs of someone undergoing treatment. Referring your employee to resources that may help them understand the basics of all things reproductive health will make them more confident in their reproductive journeys. 2. Help establish the feeling of a supportive environment. Educational workshops can be a stepping stone to understanding the concerns your employees might have surrounding their fertility. These can help build open dialogue and encourage them to discuss fertility issues without concerns of negative consequences. 88 % of employees who felt unsupported during IVF treatment have left or consider leaving their job. Partnering with organisations that provide fertility counselling can support your employees during this emotional turmoil. 3. Establish a fertility benefits policy in the workplace. Eligible employees in the UK have a statutory right to up to 52 weeks of maternity leave and 2 weeks paternity leave. On the other hand, preconception care is not a statutory right, which is why most employers do not have formal policies in place. With the number of NHS-funded cycles declining rapidly and extensive criteria couples, especially LGBTQ+ couples, have to fulfil before accessing a funded cycle, many people are opting for private treatment but few can afford it. The average cost per cycle in a private clinic is about £5,000+, but it can cost even more depending on the treatment options chosen and the clinic. Establishing fertility benefits policies – covering proactive fertility testing, fertility treatment or egg freezing costs or providing low-interest loans – can help align your interests with your employees, supporting their individual journeys to parenthood, facilitating equality, diversity and inclusion. 4. Establish flexible work options. Fertility treatment is time-consuming because it means having to attend multiple tests, appointments, consultations and procedures. Appointments can often end up with long wait times or need recovery time. For most people, a single cycle of IVF can take between four and six weeks. Usually, the time employees take off work for fertility treatment is deducted from their paid time off or sick leave. Not having a fertility treatment leave policy has been linked to greater levels of distress, risk of burnout and reduced performance. Providing flexible working hours and arrangements can help support employees with the time they might need to attend clinic appointments. 5. Find the right partner to support with fertility benefits. Selecting the optimal partner is paramount when developing and implementing employee reproductive health benefits. To ensure your workforce receives the most comprehensive support possible, the chosen solution should address the full spectrum of the fertility and hormone journey. A truly comprehensive benefit package should aim to integrate several critical components: Hertility Health is dedicated to shaping the future of Reproductive Health, providing individuals with the tools to understand and manage their fertility and hormone health from menstruation through menopause. To learn more about implementing our Reproductive Health Education and Benefits within your organisation reach out to: benefits@hertilityhealth.com or visit our website: https://hertilityhealth.com/workplace.

PMS and PMDD can both occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. But what is the difference between PMS and PMDD and what are the treatments available? Read on to find out.  Quick facts: What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)? Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to a group of physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that occur in the days or weeks leading up to your period. For many people, PMS is a familiar but manageable part of the menstrual cycle, with up to 90% of women and people who menstruate experiencing it at some point.  PMS can vary from person to person, with some people just experiencing mild symptoms, with others suffering from more extreme symptoms that can affect their daily lives. What are the most common symptoms of PMS? There are a combination of physical and mental symptoms that can be associated with PMS. Some of the most common symptoms include: What is PMDD? Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a cyclical hormone-based mood disorder. that affects mood, behaviour, and physical wellbeing in the days leading up to your period. While PMS exists on a spectrum, PMDD sits at the most severe end. What makes PMDD distinct is not just the symptoms themselves, but how disruptive they can be. People often describe feeling like a completely different version of themselves in the second half of their cycle, with changes that affect their ability to work, maintain relationships, or carry out daily routines.  These symptoms follow a clear cyclical pattern, typically emerging after ovulation, intensifying in the week before a period, and easing shortly after menstruation begins. This predictable timing is one of the most important clinical clues and one of the reasons PMDD is often misunderstood or missed altogether. PMDD is estimated to affect up to 5.5% of the population in the UK who menstruate, which adds up to over a million. That is 1 in 20  people. What Are the Main Symptoms of PMDD? PMDD can present a wide range of emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms.  The main symptoms of PMDD include severe mood swings, irritability or anger, anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating. Many people also experience physical symptoms such as fatigue, bloating, sleep disturbances, and appetite changes. Symptoms occur in the luteal phase  or premenstrual phase of the menstrual cycle and subside within a few days of menstruation due to the brain’s sensitivity to the natural rise and fall of progesterone and oestrogen. Recognising these patterns is key to understanding whether what you’re experiencing could be PMDD. 🌪 Emotional & Mood Changes  🧠 Cognitive & Psychological 🛌 Physical & Sensory Symptoms In the most severe cases of PMDD, some people may experience suicidal ideation or suicidal thoughts. If you need urgent help for your mental health you can contact the Samaritans 24/7 helpline, or Mind’s crisis resources. What Does PMDD Actually Feel Like? PMDD is often characterised by a shift in emotional and psychological state that can feel difficult to control or explain. Unlike PMS, where symptoms may feel uncomfortable but manageable, PMDD can feel overwhelming and, at times, debilitating. Many people report intense mood changes, including persistent low mood, anxiety, irritability, or a sense of being emotionally overwhelmed. There can be a loss of interest in things that would usually bring enjoyment, alongside difficulty concentrating or making decisions. For some, these changes are accompanied by intrusive or distressing thoughts, and in more severe cases, feelings of hopelessness or suicidal ideation, which is why PMDD is recognised as a serious medical condition. Importantly, these symptoms are cyclical. They tend to resolve once the period starts, sometimes quite suddenly, which can make the contrast between phases of the cycle feel even more pronounced. It’s also important to note that PMDD can occur even in people who do not bleed regularly. For example, individuals using a hormonal coil or those who have had a hysterectomy but still have functioning ovaries may still experience PMDD symptoms, as hormonal cycling continues. What Causes PMDD?  PMDD is often misunderstood as a hormonal imbalance, but current research suggests something more nuanced. Most people with PMDD have hormone levels that fall within the typical range. Instead, the condition appears to be driven by an increased sensitivity in the brain to the normal hormonal changes especially linked to oestrogen and progesterone that occur across the menstrual cycle, particularly after ovulation.  There is also evidence to suggest a genetic component. Individuals with PMDD are more likely to have a family history of the condition, as well as mood disorders such as depression or anxiety.Variations in genes involved in hormone regulation and serotonin signalling may increase susceptibility, helping to explain why some people experience more severe reactions to hormonal shifts than others. Emerging research and lived experience also point towards a potential link between PMDD and neurodiversity. Some neurodivergent individuals, including those who are autistic, report more intense or difficult-to-manage symptoms. This may be related to differences in how the nervous system processes stress, sensory input, and emotional change. It is important to note that neurodiversity does not cause PMDD, but it may influence how symptoms are experienced and perceived. Stress is another key factor. Chronic stress can disrupt the body’s hormonal and neurological balance, particularly through its effects on cortisol, the primary stress hormone. This may amplify sensitivity to normal hormonal fluctuations and worsen the emotional and physical symptoms associated with PMDD.  Mental health history also plays an important role. Individuals with a history of trauma, anxiety, or depression may be more vulnerable to PMDD, and symptoms can often overlap or intensify during certain phases of the cycle. This does not mean PMDD is purely psychological, but rather that it sits at the intersection of hormonal and mental health processes. Beyond the brain and hormones, there is growing interest in the role of inflammation. Some studies have found elevated inflammatory markers in people with PMDD, suggesting that inflammation may interact with hormonal sensitivity and contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, low mood, and brain fog. Nutritional […]

In this article, we’ll explore how fertility treatments can affect your mental health. We’ll discuss the ups and downs and tips for taking care of your emotional wellbeing. Quick facts: Understanding the emotional side of fertility treatment  Sometimes, the road to parenthood is not as straightforward as we may initially think. If you’ve struggled to conceive naturally, don’t want to, or can’t, fertility treatments can be a great option.  But they can come with a huge range of emotional challenges, that are often lost in the conversation centring around all of the physical aspects of the procedures.  According to recent studies, up to 30% of people seeking fertility assistance report symptoms of anxiety and depression, while nearly 40% grapple with elevated stress levels. Fertility treatments like egg freezing and IVF are often described as ‘emotional rollercoasters’, with moments of joy and love, and moments of sadness, uncertainty and fear.  The anticipation of each treatment cycle, uncertainty of outcome and the financial burdens can all take a toll on mental health. Many individuals and couples going through fertility treatments may feel isolated or like they’re carrying the burden alone, which can exacerbate feelings of loneliness. Some individuals may also feel pressure to conceive within a certain timeframe, adding to the stress. This pressure can come from societal expectations, family, or personal goals. Here we lay out some tips for looking after your mental health during treatment as well as some proactive ways to deal with the prospect of failed treatment. Tips for looking after your mental health during fertility treatment Everyone deals with stress differently and it’s important to find a method that works for you, as well as understanding your triggers. Some of these methods may work for you.  Get as much information as possible about your treatment  Understanding the fertility treatment process can significantly reduce anxiety. Research the steps involved and make sure you know exactly what will happen at each stage. Prepare a list of questions for consultations with your doctor or specialist to clarify any doubts or worries. Knowing what to expect can make the process feel less daunting, allowing you to feel more in control of your journey. Don’t make it the only topic of conversation  While sharing your feelings and concerns with your partner is crucial, it’s essential not to let fertility worries or discussions about your treatment dominate every conversation. Taking breaks to discuss non-fertility-related topics, especially if you’re going through this process with a partner can provide relief and maintain emotional connections with your loved ones.  Lean into your family and friends Your support network is invaluable during fertility treatment. Lean on family and friends who are empathetic and understanding. Share your experiences, but also make time for enjoyable activities together that can take your mind off things. These connections can offer emotional support and a sense of normalcy. Consider fertility counselling Fertility counselling can offer a safe space to explore your emotions and concerns with a mental health professional. These experts can guide you through the emotional challenges of fertility treatment, providing valuable coping strategies and emotional support. You can book an online appointment with one of our fertility counsellors at any time.  Identify your triggers Take time to understand how stress affects you personally. Recognise your personal triggers and signs of stress, such as irritability, sleep disturbances, or physical tension. Once identified, develop a toolbox of coping strategies that work for you. This may include relaxation techniques, journaling, exercise or talking to a friend. Practice mindfulness Mindfulness techniques, like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help you stay grounded during the emotional turbulence of fertility treatment. Regular practice can reduce anxiety and increase your overall sense of well-being. Keep active and don’t isolate  Maintaining physical activity and staying engaged in enjoyable activities can positively impact your mood. Exercise releases endorphins, which can help alleviate stress. Additionally, avoid isolating yourself during treatment. Maintain social connections to provide emotional support and prevent feelings of loneliness. Avoid any other big life changes The fertility treatment journey itself is a significant life event that can be emotionally taxing. Avoid introducing additional stressors, like moving to a new home or starting a new job, during this period if possible. Staying in a familiar environment and maintaining your established routine can provide stability and reduce anxiety. Join a support group Support from friends and family can also be vital, but it’s important to remember that not everyone will understand the emotional complexity of fertility struggles. Joining a support group can allow you to connect with other people going through the same struggles. There are lots of online groups available or in-person group counselling-based sessions. Waiting for your pregnancy test result The two-week wait, that agonising period between embryo transfer and the pregnancy test, is often one of the most emotionally challenging phases of fertility treatment. It’s a time marked by heightened uncertainty and anxiety, as the long-anticipated results of your efforts hang in the balance.  Try to plan ahead for activities and distractions that can help take your mind off the uncertainty. Having a plan in place can provide a sense of control over your time and emotions during this period. Keep a schedule of daily activities, work commitments, or outings with friends and family. Consider engaging in hobbies you enjoy, reading a good book, or taking up mindfulness and relaxation techniques. It can be beneficial to focus on tasks and experiences that bring you joy and fulfilment. Remember that a busy mind has less space for worries. Lean on your support network during this challenging time. Share your feelings and concerns with loved ones, as they can provide invaluable emotional support. Whether it’s a shoulder to lean on, a listening ear, or a comforting presence, friends and family can help alleviate some of the anxiety and loneliness you may be feeling. Don’t hesitate to communicate your needs to them. Facing the prospect of a failed fertility treatment Experiencing a failed fertility treatment can be emotionally devastating. It’s a moment […]