Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse (six months if the woman is over age 35) or the inability to carry a pregnancy to live birth. According to the CDC, infertility affects approx. 10% of the population or 1 in 8 couples. http://resolve.org/.

Losses Associated with Infertility

Infertility can be a major life crisis and it is often suffered in private. Infertility involves many hidden losses such as:

  • Loss of pregnancy and the birth experience
  • Loss of the parenting experience
  • Loss of hope
  • Loss of stability in personal relationships
  • Loss of work productivity
  • Financial losses
  • Low self-esteem and low and self-worth
  • Loss of sexual intimacy

Emotional Impact of Infertility

Life may feel out of control and on-hold for those experiencing infertility and month-to-month disappointments can occur with each negative pregnancy test. The stress on a partner relationship experiencing infertility can be immense. At least 50% of those experiencing infertility also experience anxiety and/or depression at some point in the journey.

What Can Couples or Individuals Struggling With Infertility Do?

  • Connect with others – find a support group through RESOLVE
  • Learn ways to connect and communicate with your partner
  • Provide information to supportive friends and/or family members (i.e. Frequently asked questions, How loved ones can support you)
  • Find a mental health professional to provide added support and ways to cope