IVF abroad is an emotional journey too – here are 5 psychologist-approved tips to cope

At TRB HQ, we know that IVF can be a real physical and emotional rollercoaster, no matter where you are. We also know (some of us, from lived experience) that undergoing fertility treatment abroad can bring an additional layer of emotional intensity. 

There are plenty of really great reasons to consider IVF abroad in the first place. But logistical pressures, cultural differences, and isolation from familiar healthcare and personal support systems can combine to make the experience feel just that little bit more overwhelming. 

Wondering how to deal with IVF anxiety abroad? We caught up with Ana Luísa Alves, psychologist at Procriar Fertility Clinic in Porto, to chat through it all – from planning ahead and navigating treatment to finding the right support once you’re back in the UK.

Procriar is our go-to in Portugal right now, for a completely patient-centered approach and top-notch treatment expertise. Not only do they welcome international patients all the way up to the age of 50, but each is assigned a dedicated Patient Care Assistant (PCA) from the start of their journey, ensuring that they have a trusted point of contact for questions, reassurance, and guidance.

Now, over to Ana Luísa Alves.

1. Planning ahead to minimise stress

One of the best ways to keep stress to a minimum is to get organised early. 

IVF abroad involves multiple moving parts, from documentation and travel arrangements to clinic visits and medication schedules. Plan as much as possible in advance, including accommodation and transport, to reduce last-minute stress.

If possible, arrange to bring your support network, whether that’s your partner, a close friend, or family member. Having someone familiar with you can provide comfort and emotional stability. 

Familiarising yourself with the treatment process before you travel can also help. Speak to the clinic team, read testimonials from other patients, and research your destination to ease uncertainty.

2. Choosing a clinic that prioritises patient care

Finding a reputable and ethical clinic abroad is essential, not only for medical safety but also for your emotional wellbeing. 

Look for a clinic with strong patient support, clear communication, and transparency about costs and procedures.

At Procriar, values like empathy, professionalism, and patient-centred care are prioritised. With one of the largest egg and sperm banks in Portugal, it is well-recognised for its high standards. 

Choosing a clinic that offers a dedicated care team and psychological support, like Procriar, can really help ease some of the anxiety of navigating treatment in an unfamiliar setting.

3. Using practical techniques for how to deal with IVF anxiety abroad

It’s so natural to feel anxious during IVF, and being in another country can intensify those feelings. 

Practical techniques can help you manage stress and stay present throughout the process, including: 

• Mindfulness and grounding exercises – Simple techniques such as deep breathing, guided meditation, or focusing on physical sensations can help regulate emotions.
• Journaling – Writing about your thoughts and feelings can provide an outlet for stress and help process your experience.
• Maintaining routines – Sticking to familiar habits, such as morning walks, reading, or your usual bedtime routine, can help to create a sense of stability.
• Setting boundaries around conversations – IVF can be all-consuming, so it’s important to set limits. Designate a specific time each day to focus on treatment-related concerns and then shift your attention to other activities.

Also, when you’re not at the clinic for testing or procedures, taking breaks from treatment-related thoughts and immersing yourself in your surroundings can be beneficial.

Procriar’s location in Porto offers the opportunity to enjoy green spaces, riverside walks, and the calming influence of the sea.

4. Staying connected to home while you’re away

Feeling disconnected from your support network can add to the emotional weight of IVF abroad. 

Technology can help bridge the gap, and scheduling regular video calls to keep in touch with loved ones can provide reassurance and emotional support.

Keeping to your usual time zone for communication can be a good idea, too. Since Portugal is in the same time zone as the UK, it’s easier to maintain regular contact with friends and family!

It sounds obvious, but it might also be helpful to bring a few comforting items from home. Small familiar objects that can be easily popped into a suitcase, like a favourite book, photo, or even just your slippers, can help create that sense of home in your temporary surroundings.

5. IVF abroad and pregnancy in the UK? Navigating next steps after treatment

The emotional journey doesn’t end when the IVF cycle does. Whether the outcome is successful or further rounds of treatment are needed, it’s important to have a plan for what comes next when you return to the UK.

If your cycle is successful, the early weeks of pregnancy can feel both exciting and nerve-wracking. This is why Procriar’s nursing team stays in contact with patients for the first 12 weeks, providing guidance and requesting ultrasound reports at two and four weeks post-pregnancy test.

For those who need further support or another treatment cycle, staying connected with the clinic and your local healthcare providers is key.

Having a psychologist or counsellor available, whether through the clinic or at home, can provide additional emotional resilience when dealing with the fallout of a failed cycle. At Procriar, we also offer instructions on when to stop your medication, and will follow up 1 year after treatment to check in.

The wrap on managing emotions during IVF abroad

Our key takeaways? Bookmark the list below to help you tackle the emotional journey of IVF abroad.

• Plan ahead and stay organised – Reduce stress by handling travel logistics, documentation, and accommodation well in advance.
• Seek out a supportive clinic – Choose a clinic with transparent communication, strong patient care, and access to psychological support, like Procriar.
• Maintain a sense of routine – Keep up with your daily habits as much as possible to provide stability in an unfamiliar setting.
• Stay connected to your support network – Whether through video calls, messages, or bringing familiar comforts, maintaining ties with home can be reassuring.
• Set emotional boundaries – Avoid becoming overwhelmed by limiting treatment-related conversations to specific times of day and focusing on positive activities outside of that window.

By choosing Procriar, you’ll benefit from a patient-centred approach, including psychological support and a dedicated care team. Connect with their expert team, whenever you’re ready, to get started.