In this blog post, Part 3 of Infertility Awareness Week 2023, we will uncover some mental challenges couples face when dealing with infertility.
We also highlight some coping strategies for both emotional and mental struggles.
We also share some additional resources for guidance.
If you haven’t read the first two parts of this blog post series, you can read them here:
Part 2: Common Factors, Demographics, & Emotional Impact of Infertility
Mental Health Effects of Infertility
Infertility can have significant mental health effects on individuals and couples.
The following are some ways in which infertility can impact a person’s mental state of mind:
Anxiety
Infertility can cause anxiety, especially as individuals and couples struggle with the uncertainty and unpredictability of their fertility journey.
Anxiety can manifest as worry, fear, and panic attacks.
Depression
Infertility can cause feelings of depression, including sadness, hopelessness, and feelings of worthlessness.
Depression can make finding joy in everyday activities difficult and lead to social isolation. Therefore, it’s important to seek emotional support to maintain emotional wellness.
Stress
Infertility can be a stressful experience, especially as individuals and couples undergo fertility treatments and navigate the financial and logistical challenges of their fertility journey.
Chronic stress can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and digestive issues. Promoting physical activities, even if just walking, can help minimize this stress.Shame and Stigma
Infertility can be a stigmatized condition, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and self-doubt. These feelings can negatively impact a person’s self-esteem and self-worth.
Increased socialization, finding a community to talk about the issues facing couples, and using your voice to increase awareness can help to dispel shame and stigmas.
Relationship Strain
Iraisety can strain relationships, especially as couples struggle with blame, resentment, or disagreement about the best course of action.
Not everyone realizes that the men are struggling too.
Individuals and couples must prioritize their mental health and seek support as needed.
This can include therapy, support groups, and other resources for those struggling.
Remember that you are not alone and that resources and support are available to help you through this challenging time.
Coping Strategies for Individuals and Couples
Coping with infertility can be a complex and emotionally challenging experience.
Some coping strategies that individuals and couples may find helpful are:
Seek Support
Connect with others through similar experiences through support groups or online communities. Joining an infertility community, in particular, can be very healing.
Having someone safe to talk to about the issues is vital.
Prioritize Self-Care
Take care of your physical and emotional needs by getting enough rest, eating well, exercising, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.
Consider Therapy
Therapy can provide a safe space to process feelings of grief, anxiety, and depression related to infertility.
Sliding scales are available for each economic status. Don’t let lack of funding be one of the barriers to the emotional energy you need during these trying times.
Educate Yourself
Learn as much as possible, and educate yourself and your family. This will allow you to feel more empowered and take control of your fertility journey.
Set Boundaries
Determine what works for you regarding sharing your journey with others and communicating your needs to your partner and loved ones.
Consider Alternative Paths to Parenthood
Explore alternative paths to parenthood, such as adoption or surrogacy, to help shift focus away from traditional methods of conception and towards other ways to start a family.
It is important to remember that coping strategies can vary from person to person and that what works for one person may not work for another.
Prioritizing your mental health and seeking support and resources as needed is vital.
Available Support Resources
Various support resources are available for struggling men, women, and couples.
The following are some examples:
RESOLVE
The National Infertility Association: RESOLVE is a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources for individuals and couples.
They offer support groups, educational resources, and advocacy initiatives.
FertilityIQ
FertilityIQ is an online resource that provides reviews of fertility clinics and doctors, as well as educational resources and support.
American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
ASRM is a professional organization that provides resources and support for individuals and couples, including educational materials and a directory of fertility clinics.
Men’s Health Network
Men’s Health Network is a nonprofit organization that provides resources and support for men’s reproductive health, including infertility.
National Infertility and Adoption Education Nonprofit (NIAE)
NIAE is a nonprofit organization that provides education and support for individuals and couples struggling with infertility and adoption.
Resolve Through Sharing
Resolve Through Sharing is a support program for individuals and couples who have experienced pregnancy loss or infertility.
Online Communities
Various online communities and forums offer support and resources for individuals and couples struggling with infertility, such as the Fertility Community, Fertility Zone, and BabyCenter Community.
It’s important to remember that resources and support are available for men, women, and couples struggling with infertility.
Seeking help and support is okay during this challenging time.
I think it should be considered necessary.
To learn about some of the traditional medical options for infertility treatments, the pros and cons, and the financial repercussions to consider, read on to Part 4 of this blog series.
