Infertility - Psychological effects of infertility

1. Most couples cope well with the rigorous and
intricate therapies of infertility.
2. Most couples assume that they will be able to
become pregnant when they desire. The inability
may lead to frustration, sadness, depression, and
distancing between the couple. Women who have
postponed childbearing to have a career may be
used to being in control of many parts of their life. When they are unsuccessful in becoming
pregnant when they want, they may feel frustrated
and angry.
3. The effect of the infertility depends on the age of
the couple, their personality and coping styles,
pre-existing psychopathology, medical causes, and
motivations for pregnancy.
4. Infertility can lead to a sense of failure and guilt,
that something is wrong with them because their
body does not function correctly. Body image may
be altered.
5. There may be sexual difficulties, avoidance of
intercourse, and inability to perform, especially
with seemingly mechanical tests like postcoital
and semen specimens. Anorgasmia, impotence,
and decreased libido may occur.
6. Avoidance of friends and family who have
children can occur, further isolating the couple.
7. Psychological counseling, before, during and
after IVF, may be indicated. The stress of
infertility and its treatment may exacerbate
other psychiatric conditions, such as mood or
anxiety disorders. The ovulation inducing agents
may also exacerbate psychological problems or
reduce the effectiveness of psychotropic
medications.

Posted in: Health,Infertility