For most people, reproduction is a basic expectation of life, and to have a child is to continue the human life cycle.”Infertility” is a term that describes a couple who is unable to achieve pregnancy after 1 year of having regular, unprotected sex, or after 6 months if the woman is older than 35 years of age. Infertility also describes the condition of women who are able to get pregnant but unable to carry a pregnancy to term because of miscarriage, recurrent pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or other problems.
Infertility, including the inability to carry a pregnancy to term, can deeply affect the emotional and psychological well-being of women and their partners.
Infertility brings with it many real or potential losses: the loss of self-esteem, the loss of a dream, the loss of close relationships, financial losses, and the loss of a sense of self as a healthy sexual being. Depression, anxiety, anger, and guilt are common responses to infertility. Group, individual and couples psychotherapy can help provide support during this period and medications can help to manage symptoms.
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Please remember this information is intended for educational purposes only and should not substitute medical advice from a healthcare provider.