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
