Supporting The relationship while trying to conceive
The journey of trying to conceive (TTC) can bring couples closer together, but it can also introduce stress, tension, and unexpected emotional challenges. The pressure, timing, and emotional highs and lows may affect how you and your partner connect. Prioritizing your relationship alongside your fertility journey can help you feel more supported and grounded as you navigate this path together.
Honouring the Emotional Journey
TTC isn’t just about tracking cycles and timing—it’s an emotional experience that can bring hope, frustration, grief, and everything in between. You and your partner may process these emotions differently, and that’s okay. One of you might want to talk through every detail, while the other copes by staying practical or withdrawing. Instead of assuming your partner isn’t affected, try opening a conversation with curiosity:
How are you feeling about everything this month?
What’s been hardest for you?
How can we support each other better right now?
Creating space to talk about feelings—without pressure to fix anything—can strengthen your connection.
Ways to Support Your Relationship While TTC
Communicate Needs and Boundaries – If one of you is feeling overwhelmed by constant fertility discussions or testing schedules, find a balance that respects both of your needs. Consider setting "TTC-free" days where you focus on other aspects of your life together.
Shift Focus from Performance to Connection – The pressure of scheduled intimacy can make it feel like a task rather than a source of closeness. Finding ways to reconnect—outside of ovulation windows—can help keep intimacy meaningful.
Acknowledge Each Other’s Experience – If your partner doesn’t express emotions the same way, it doesn’t mean they’re not feeling them. Try to recognize and appreciate their way of coping rather than expecting them to respond exactly as you do.
Find Shared Joy – TTC can take up a lot of emotional space, so it’s important to nurture the parts of your relationship that bring you joy. Plan date nights, explore new activities together, or revisit things that make you laugh.
Consider Outside Support – If TTC stress is creating tension, working with a therapist—individually or as a couple—can provide space to navigate emotions, strengthen communication, and process challenges together.
If the Journey Feels Heavy
TTC can be an emotional rollercoaster, and it’s okay if it feels hard. Seeking support—whether from a therapist, a trusted friend, or a community—can help you process emotions, reconnect with yourself, and navigate this experience with more ease.
Your well-being and your relationship are just as important as the outcome of this journey. However this path unfolds, you are not alone.