Psychological Impact of Infertility
This week, April 24-30, 2022, is recognized as National Infertility Awareness Week.
How common is infertility?
About 9% of men and about 11% of women of reproductive age in the United States have experienced fertility problems.1
- In one-third of infertile couples, the problem is with the man.
- In one-third of infertile couples, the problem can’t be identified or is with both the man and woman.
- In one-third of infertile couples, the problem is with the woman.
To show your support for those dealing with infertility, you can wear orange. Why orange?
The color orange promotes a sense of wellness, emotional energy to be shared: compassion, passion, and warmth. Helps to recover from disappointments, a wounded heart, or a blow to one’s pride. Studies show that orange can create a heightened sense of activity, increased socialization, boost in aspiration, contentment, assurance, confidence and understanding.
What is the psychological impact of infertility?
Couples and individuals who struggle with infertility are likely to encounter many ups and downs while navigating their fertility journey. Common reactions to this process include: sadness, anger, frustration, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, irritability, changes in primary relationship, loss of interest in sex, change of attitude towards sex, and feeling overwhelmed. Psychological symptoms associated with infertility are similar to those associated with other serious medical conditions. Comparative Study
What psychological treatments are available?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that includes relaxation training, restructuring, and eliminating of negative automatic thoughts and dysfunctional attitudes to depression has been shown to be effective at reducing depression in women experiencing infertility, and was superior to treatment with medication. CBT has been shown to improve the social concerns, sexual concerns, marital concerns, rejection of child-free lifestyle, and need for parenthood in women experiencing infertility more than medication alone. Thus, CBT is not only a reliable alternative to medication, but also superior to medication in resolving and reducing stress related to infertility. The positive benefits of psychotherapy and CBT in particular for treatment of psychological distress associated with infertility has been demonstrated in multiple studies. Although most of the studies focus on women, CBT is likely a good approach for men experiencing fertility challenges as well.