Infertility affects about 12 to 13 out of every 100 couples in the United States. Infertility can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating for those who long to have a child. Although infertility is a common phenomenon, many couples feel isolated and alone during this time.
Furthermore, the mental impact of infertility can make even the most resilient people feel helpless and hopeless. Fortunately, infertility mental health professionals are becoming more aware of the impact of infertility and mental health.
Learning about the effects of infertility on mental health can help you feel more educated and empowered. Read on for more information about what you need to know.
The Relationship Between Infertility and Mental Health
Research shows that the most common mental health conditions associated with female infertility are depression and anxiety.
These feelings are likely due to many variables, including:
- Feelings of anticipatory dread about the future
- Compromised self-esteem
- Difficulty with concentration due to the mental effects of infertility
- Resentment and frustration around other pregnant people or children
- Feelings of inadequacy or inferiority
- Couple or marital issues
- Numbing feelings via substance use or other compulsive behaviors
- Stigmatization or fear of stigmatization over fertility-related issues
The relationship between infertility and mental health appears to be correlational. That means it is unclear to determine if one issue causes the other. There may be other unexplained reasons that can cause this link.
Can Mental Health Issues Cause Infertility?
Limited studies are examining whether infertility and mental health have a direct relationship. That said, some evidence suggests that preexisting depression and anxiety issues tend to be higher in infertile couples than fertile couples.
However, it is challenging to discern and pinpoint whether such conditions are responsible for infertility. Instead, it appears that numerous, multifaceted variables are attributed to infertility in both men and women.
Nearly 20 percent of couples face unexplained infertility. In these cases, medical professionals cannot provide a specific reason for the infertility struggles. This diagnosis can exacerbate painful feelings of shame, fear, and anger.
Getting Treatment For Your Infertility and Mental Health
When it comes to infertility and mental health, people experience all types of reactions. Some feel tremendous anger and resentment. Others feel anxious or sad. Some people feel pervasive guilt or shame. Moreover, it is not uncommon to experience cycling of all these emotions.
Although loved ones may have good intentions in providing you with infertility tips, such shortsighted advice can cause more harm than good. After all, how many times do you want to hear, “don’t stress- it’ll happen when it happens!”?
Alternatively, infertility mental health treatment provides you with a safe and supportive environment to explore your challenges. You and your therapist will work together to:
- Work through uncomfortable feelings associated with infertility
- Seek and engage in healthy self-care and coping skills
- Create a healthy support system
- Address other co-occurring issues related to your physical and mental health
- Achieve greater acceptance for your current struggles
No matter where you are on your journey, or how long you’ve been on the journey, treatment for infertility and mental health can offer a profound healing space.
Are you interested in getting started? Contact Lumos Counseling PC today to schedule your initial consultation.