I am in the process of preparing, both physically and emotionally, for the next week of treatment and the upcoming IVF procedures. My body will experience dramatic changes this week as my ovaries expand with a multitude of growing egg follicles. Sitting and walking will be very uncomfortable, while exercising and lifting a toddler will be out of the question. Once everything is good and swollen, the egg retrieval takes place. This procedure involves general anesthesia, an operating room and a short, but painful recovery. Three days later, the embryos are transferred into the uterine lining...and then I wait and pray for babies!
According to Dr. Silber, Dr. Pineda and all the well-intentioned friends who continually say, "relax...it will happen," relaxation truly is critical to a successful IVF. Stress hormones can sabotage embryo implantation by causing the reproductive organs to contract. They can also produce an unfavorable environment for healthy fetal development. And if I'm willing to cut out caffeine, you can bet I'm going to find a way to relax. So, for the previous IVF, I sprayed lavender fragrance all over the house and burned scented candles to set the stage. I listened to soothing music and practiced meditation to prepare for the big events. And after several weeks of my relaxation regimen, I trained myself to go from stressed mama to wet noodle in five minutes flat.
In an effort to kick-start the relaxation this time, I visited The Face and The Body in Chesterfield, where I experienced my first Swedish massage. Being a newcomer to the day spa scene, I had no idea what to expect. I'm the modest type, so I started to sweat when the massage therapist invited me to disrobe and lie nekked (as Mississippi Wade says it) on a table (under a sheet, of course). Then, she described the package and informed me that the "glutes" were included in the massage. My palpitating heart almost came to a screeching halt. Pardon me, but no one ever told me the Swedes gave tushy massages! Thankfully, Nicole set me at ease and allowed me to feel comfortable while she worked her magic. Even with an initial spike in my anxiety level, the hour of relaxation was heavenly. Thanks again to my Monday night Bible Study group for the best pampering ever!
Here's to Sweden, home of a divine massage! Blessings, Ramona
1 comment:
Yahoo for you!! So glad you enjoyed the massage. I agree that it is a little unsettling at first, but worth it in the long run. I have had several of these full body experiences, and I get nervous every time. Then, afterwards, I hurry up to put my clothes on so they don't see me nekked! Sort of like at the OB's office. I always hide my underwear, too. Like they're not gonna know I took them off. - so weird.
Know you're not alone!
Love, Lori
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