How does infertility affect a woman psychologically?
When a woman discovers she is having infertility issues, it can be a traumatic experience, especially in cultures that stress the importance of having children. She may feel like a big part of her inherent worth has been taken away, which may impact self-esteem. A woman may experience a variety of emotions, from anger, to sadness, to anxiety. Additionally, infertility treatments can be stressful emotionally for both client and their family.
How does infertility impact a relationship or marriage?
A heterosexual couple who discovers they are having difficulty conceiving have to be able to be sensitive of each other’s feelings. Quite often, the woman will feel helpless, powerless, and frustrated. Close friends and family may ask inappropriate questions that are not intended to be hurtful, but are. She may try to isolate herself from others to avoid such questions. She may also isolate herself because it might be painful to see mothers with their children or listen to her friends talk about their own kids. Her partner might not understand these feelings or behaviors, so it is important that a couple maintain communication.
What are some coping mechanisms to help a woman as she is working through infertility issues.
Dealing with infertility issues can be extremely stressful, so it is important to practice relaxation exercises, such as breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation.
How can a therapist help?
A therapist can teach relaxation exercises that can be used outside of the therapy sessions. A therapist can also teach other emotional coping mechanisms to help ease the pain. Oftentimes counseling occurs concurrently with infertility treatments to help clients manage these frequently stressful procedures.
