For some couples, getting pregnant isn’t easy. Even though not frequently discussed in social circles, fertility problems are extremely common and may have negative emotional implications.
Fertility problems are more common than you might think…
One major reason that it may seem as if an increasing amount of couples are experiencing infertility, is the increase in openness about infertility. A while back, as couples discovered they had infertility, they simply kept it to themselves, like it was something they should be ashamed of, and had to be covered up. Within the past, you shared that secret as a couple, yet you didn’t openly discuss it with friends or family. Couples still explored fertility therapy; however, as they finally conceived, they didn’t know they used donor sperm, inseminations, or IVF; it was a couples’ secret.
According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, 6.7 million or 10.9 percent of women age 15 to 44 in the U.S. have impaired capability of getting pregnant or carrying a baby to full-term, meaning that around 1 in 10 women might suffer problems when attempting to conceive.
Infertility isn’t just a woman’s problem either. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 7.5 percent of all sexually experienced males younger than 45 years old reported visiting a fertility doctor in their lifetime.
The implications…
Whatever caused it, the effects of infertility in women and men may be detrimental to someone’s health. The path to navigate infertility is challenging and oftentimes includes a tight schedule of treatment and tests, counting days upon ovulation calendars, and placing many critical things on hold.
Additionally, most couples suffer emotional responses to extended issues with infertility. Those responses might include, yet aren’t limited to, shame, frustration, sadness, anger, jealousy, blame, and diminishing self-confidence. Often times that may lead to strained friendships and relationships as well as serious depression.
What do you do if you’re experiencing fertility problems…
As you go through an infertility problem, caring for your emotional health ought to be a priority. Even though society as a whole doesn’t usually recognize the grief related to this struggle, it’s vital to ensure isolation and shame don’t overtake you.
One efficient method of preventing against this is through psychotherapy or talk therapy. Forget about the stigma occasionally related to therapy and realize the incredible benefits it may have for you, as well as your relationship.
Bringing to light and talking about the emotional challenges you’re suffering in a healthy environment helps decrease stress and permit for connection. Navigating all of your emotions dispels confusion and the sense of being overwhelmed. Going to a counselor early within the process also will assist in preventing you from reaching a place of crisis.
If you’re going through an infertility problem, know that you’re not alone. There’s available help not just for the physical elements of infertility yet also for the emotional components of the struggle. The Imagine Wellness Centre offers emotional support through grief counseling and talk therapy.
For more information about our knowledgeable holistic health centre contact Imagine Wellness today!
