How to Decide When to Stop Fertility Treatments

Fertility treatments are not only expensive, but time consuming. They may put your health at risk and are extremely emotional, especially if they continue to fail. The decision to stop fertility treatments is a difficult one to make, but there are some things to keep in mind as you make this decision.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide if you still want to have children biologically related to you. You may contemplate getting a surrogate to have your baby or consider adoption.
2. Think about how you feel about upcoming treatments. If you are dreading them or have pretty much stopped doing your doctor's recommendations, it may be time to stop fertility treatments. Also, think about why you want to quit. For many couples, it's the expense. For others, it's the side effects of some of the treatments such as hormone supplements.
3. Speak to a counselor who has worked with other couples going through this decision. This can help you prepare for any depression or other emotions you may feel if you decide to stop fertility treatments.
4. Talk to your doctor. Your doctor has been with you from the beginning attempts at fertility and been with you through all the failures. Perhaps they have another fertility treatment they recommend trying before stopping treatments. If money is the problem, perhaps they have another suggestion so you can continue receiving fertility treatments.
5. Discuss this choice with your partner. Find out if you two are on the same page. If you still want to have children, discuss other options with each other.
6. Find others going through what you're going through. Ask your doctor for a referral to a support group or if there is an online forum they would recommend.
7. Consider taking a break or a vacation from treatment before deciding to quit fully. Perhaps the vacation would give you the time you need to make a good decision about whether or not to quit treatments.