I blot the area and wipe away a speck of blood.
Its a typical night during another round ofin vitro fertilization, or IVF, treatment.
Its why fertility experts consistently say stress doesnt cause infertility, but infertility causes stress.
After getting injected with hormones each night, many women lie down with a book or calming affirmation.
I, however, turn on a sexy thrillerthey work better than rounds of meditation or mantras.
Watching suspenseful movies can alleviate melancholy symptoms.
Allison Forti, PhD, is the associate director of Online Counseling Programs at Wake Forest University.
Due to the rush of adrenaline that runs through your body when youre involved in something intense.
If Im completely honest, the adrenaline rush is only part of the appeal.
When I dont feel particularly good about myself, I find solace in these women instead.
People going through a hard time in life may be drawn to thrillers to cope, says Dr. Forti.
Perhaps thats why these movies are so cathartic to me while undergoing IVF.
Still, this isnt a universally appealing self-care habit.
The sympathetic nervous system activates, and the body gears up to fight or flee.
Though I benefit from them, for someone who doesnt, it could actually induce stress.
Watching these movies can potentially raise viewers self-esteem and life satisfaction, Dr. Forti says.
Escapism is one explanation, but social comparison is also a factor.
Struggling to have a baby changes life dramatically and these challenges shape anyone who experiences it.
But there should always besomething tangible to provide some escape.
For me, that self-soothing is found on the screen.
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