I’ll admit it: I can’t stop doomscrolling. Lately, every time I open my phone, there’s another breaking headline—like the one this week about Texas deploying over 5,000 National Guard troops (source). Honestly, it’s enough to make anyone’s anxiety spike, especially if you’re already on the emotional rollercoaster of trying to get pregnant.
But here’s the real confession: I never realized just how much world events—most of which I have no control over—could impact my own fertility journey. If you’re reading this and feeling seen, you’re not alone! So, let’s talk about how to reclaim our calm when the world feels upside down, and why that matters so much for those of us hoping to conceive.
Why the News Hits So Hard When You're TTC
Have you noticed that every stressful headline feels, well, personal right now? When you’re focused on building your family, your emotional baseline is already a bit shaky. For me, checking the news (especially stories about unrest or uncertainty) would send my heart racing and my mind spinning with “what-ifs.”
Here’s a wild fact: Chronic stress can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance needed for conception. Research shows that high stress levels might actually interfere with ovulation—your body’s way of protecting itself in “unsafe” times. So those news alerts? They’re more than just background noise; they can subtly impact your fertility journey.
But there’s something empowering buried here: We can choose how much we let the outside world in.
Setting Emotional Boundaries in a Chaotic World
I know, I know—it’s hard to unplug when you want to be informed. Here’s what’s worked for me (and might help you too!):
- Curate Your News: Instead of endless scrolling, pick one trusted news source and check it once a day. (Your sanity—and your hormones—will thank you.)
- Schedule “Worry Time”: Give yourself 10 minutes to read the news and process any feelings. When the timer’s up, move on to something nourishing.
- Practice Mindful “Doomscrolling”: Ask yourself, “Is this helping me right now?” If not, it’s okay to step away.
- Lean on Support: Share your feelings with a partner, friend, or support group. You’d be surprised how many people are feeling the same way.
Have you tried any of these? I’d love to know what works for you!
Creating a Peaceful TTC Environment—At Home
Here’s the fun part: while we can’t control what’s happening in the news, we can design our own little sanctuary for conception. I started turning my home into a place that tells my nervous system, “You’re safe. You can relax.”
- Carve out a no-news zone. Even just one corner—your bed, the couch, the bathtub—can be your stress-free space.
- Add routines: I light a favorite candle, make a cup of herbal tea, or play calming music while tracking my cycle. It gives me a sense of control and comfort.
- Get creative: Art, journaling, or gentle yoga can move your mind away from the headlines and back to your own story.
Curious how other people are doing it? Some of my friends have even started “fertility spa nights” at home (face masks, foot baths, the works—highly recommend!).
Choosing Help That Respects Your Headspace
With everything feeling uncertain outside, I’ve become more intentional about what (and who) I let into my fertility journey. That’s why I was drawn to tools and resources that reduce stress, not add to it. For example, at-home insemination kits have gained popularity—not just because they’re practical, but because they let you stay in your safe space, on your own terms.
I was honestly surprised to learn about MakeAMom’s home insemination kits and resources—they’re designed for all kinds of needs, including sensitivities and privacy concerns, and they can be used at your own pace. Being able to take back some control, especially now, feels like a small act of quiet rebellion against chaos.
The Big Takeaway: Your Calm Is Part of the Plan
You’re not “overreacting” if world events are making you anxious—especially if you’re TTC. Stress is real, and it matters. But by consciously cultivating calm, even in little ways, you’re doing something powerful for your fertility journey.
So next time a wild headline pops up on your feed, ask yourself: “Is this news helping me take care of myself today?” If not, give yourself permission to step away. Turn toward the things (and people, and tools) that bring you back to center.
You’re already doing enough. And who knows? Your peaceful environment might be the missing piece on your path to parenthood.
How do you protect your mental space while trying to conceive? Hit reply—I’d love to hear your tips!