The inability to get pregnant after a year or more of trying, most commonly termed as “infertility”, can lead to depression, anxiety and other psychological problems. Infertility triggers feelings of shame and failure to live up to traditional expectations. Often these feelings result in strained relationships. Individuals and couples can struggle when it comes to taking grim decisions about how far they would take forward the quest for children.
Most women are raised with the customary belief, that someday they’ll become mothers. From the first baby doll to the last baby shower, girls are expected to someday reach their final goal of motherhood. This pressure is from within as well as without – from parents to peers, from media to society. When men learn about their infertility, they experience the same levels of low self-esteem, stigma and depression as infertile women do. Financial concerns on the other hand exert enormous amount of pressure on relationships. A couple’s intense, frustrated desire to have a child in addition to risks involved and the high cost of fertility treatments can escalate conflicts to unbearable levels.
In vitro fertilization (IVF), while not as expensive as it used to be, is still significantly costly for many. Other routes like adoption or surrogacy can be just as, or more, expensive and pose their own challenges. Although the causes of infertility are overpoweringly physiological, the resulting distress may take a huge psychological toll on affected individuals and couples.
Here are a list of ways by which you can cope with the psychological stress, anxiety and depression associated with infertility:
• Don’t blame yourself. Resist the temptation of getting angry at yourself. Nobody gets a chance to earn the situation they are in.
• Stay updated on infertility. Find out more about infertility, through your doctor and other credible sources.
• Consult a therapist. Counseling offers great relief. It eases the strain developed in the relationship.
• Be aware of other options. Adoption or surrogacy can always relieve you from the helplessness you feel.
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