At the SIMS Clinic, we want to do our best to ensure that our patients are as prepared as possible for the experience of
SIMS IVF
Integrative Mind/Body Programme
For further information and Each of the participants will also receive a ‘Relaxation Experience’ CD by Dr Alice Domar and Getting Pregnant Faster book by Dr Marilyn Glenville PhD and SIMS Mind/Body Programme Brochure Lunch will be provided (optional)
booking details, contact: Ann Bracken, Mind/Body Programme Facilitator at SIMS IVF Clinic on Tel. 01 208 0729 Email:
[email protected]
You do not have to be a SIMS IVF patient to attend SIMS Mind/Body Programme
Cost: €150 per individual Integrating cognitive behavioural (CBT), relaxation & healthy lifestyle techniques to positively manage stress & promote conception
The desire to have children is one of our most basic instincts and fundamental desires. Unanticipated difficulties conceiving can have a negative impact
on everything from your outlook on life to your closest relationships. Patients often find that by the time they are diagnosed with infertility and
are initiating treatment they are beset by an array of emotions and conflicting beliefs.
At the SIMS Clinic, we want to do our best to ensure that our patients are as prepared as possible for the experience of fertility treatment so that they find it significantly less stressful than they would otherwise. There are some very key reasons why we feel strongly about helping patients maintain the lowest distress levels possible: A recent study showed that women who were the most anxious and depressed prior to their IVF treatment cycle were 93% less likely to conceive than the least distressed women. Other research (Skillman, NJ Oct.19,2009), has shown that women who participated in a stress management programme prior to or during IVF treatment had a 52% greater pregnancy rate than women who did not participate in the programme (American Society of Reproductive Medicine’s 65th Annual Meeting).
The pioneer of the Mind/Body Programme, Dr. Alice Domar PhD, of Harvard’s Mind/Body Institute in Boston explained; “This study shows that stress management may improve pregnancy rates, minimising the stress of fertility management itself, improving the success rates of IVF procedures and ultimately, helping to alleviate the emotional burden for women who are facing challenges trying to conceive.” The SIMS IVF Integrative Mind/Body Programme will benefit those who wish to reduce stress and increase well-being, before or during their treatment. Couples and individuals attend a one day Saturday programme between 9.00am – 5.00pm. This 1 x day programme includes CBT cognitive restructuring, Mindfulness techniques, Restorative Yoga exercise, Nutritional Therapy and information on Medical Acupuncture for fertility support. The Mind/Body Programme is held in SIMS Training Centre in a small group setting. There is no need or pressure to share information or feelings in the whole group if you don’t want to. The focus is on learning skills in a supportive atmosphere.
Why do the SIMS Integrative MIND/BODY Programme? l To establish self-supportive thinking patterns and acceptance beliefs in place of unhelpful ones (with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CBT), e.g. from “It’s never going to happen for us” to “we are doing everything we can to support our chances of getting pregnant.”
Learn to recognise unhelpful thinking and challenge it effectively. l To integrate Mindfulness based relaxation techniques. l To decrease any symptoms of stress, anxiety, low-mood and fatigue. l To increase your understanding of the role of nutrition in establishing optimal conditions for conception and implantation. Positive Nutrition will provide nutritional advice on rebalancing deficiencies and give practical steps on how to improve your diet and overall health. l To understand the relationship between stress and infertility. l To support your physical health with Medical Acupuncture and also Restorative Yoga exercise for fertility enhancement. l To enable you to reclaim your sense of selfconfidence and feel more empowered in the treatment process. l To learn effective coping skills. l To give dedicated space and time to nurture and enhance your relationship. The Mind/Body programme is open to individuals and couples to attend.
