Couples struggling with infertility need intimate psychological support: Experts

Infertility has a profound impact on the mental health of couples, causing significant psychological distress

The psychological impact of infertility is profound and multi-faceted. It not only affects an individual's self-esteem but also leads to stress and amplifies societal pressures on becoming parents. Close psychological support is needed for 10 out of 30 couples falling in the age group of 30-43 battling infertility on a monthly basis. Couples facing infertility should prioritise seeking counselling as a means to better navigate this issue. 

WHO says that 1 in 6 couples experience infertility worldwide. Infertility is a disheartening and emotionally taxing reality for many couples. It refers to the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after a year of regular unprotected intercourse. 

This distressing condition affects both men and women, with various underlying causes such as hormonal imbalances, reproductive organ disorders, pollution, genetic abnormalities, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and drug use, that can negatively impact fertility in both men and women. 
Additionally, being overweight or underweight can disrupt hormonal balance and affect ovulation or sperm production. Exposure to certain toxins like pesticides, heavy metals or radiation may damage reproductive organs or interfere with hormone regulation. Despite the advancements in fertility treatments, infertility still carries a significant stigma due to societal expectations surrounding childbearing. Not only this, infertility disturbs the mental well-being of couples. 

“In our centres in Mumbai, every month we see at least 10 out of 30 couples between the ages of 30 and 43 who are struggling with infertility and require intimate psychological support. Women tend to experience more profound psychological and emotional impacts compared to men in similar situations,” says Diana Crasta, chief psychological counsellor, Nova IVF Fertility.

She adds, “These couples face several common challenges such as poor self-esteem, stress arising from unsuccessful IVF treatments, apprehension rooted in previous failures, and relationship difficulties. The uncertainty surrounding the outcomes of fertility treatments often leaves many women feeling emotionally numb internally. While 60 per cent of couples choose not to discuss their infertility struggles with their loved ones due to various reasons including fear or privacy concerns, around 40 per cent do express their concerns openly by seeking solace in familial or friendly relationships.” 
   
Crasta goes on to say, “Infertility may be perceived as primarily affecting physical health, but its reach far exceeds this realm; it infiltrates emotional stability. The emotional rollercoaster that couples experience when faced with the inability to conceive can be overwhelming. Beyond the frustration and disappointment, infertility often triggers feelings of guilt, shame and inadequacy. The constant questioning of one's worthiness as a potential parent can lead to a deep sense of sadness and despair.” 

Furthermore, the psychological impact of infertility extends beyond the individual level and it affects relationships as well. Couples facing fertility challenges may find themselves becoming distant from each other as they blame themselves or struggle to understand why conception has not happened for them. This strain on their partnership can lead to increased tension, anxieties, communication breakdowns, low work productivity, loneliness, frustration, irritation, anger, agitation and even feelings of resentment towards one another.

It becomes crucial for couples experiencing infertility to seek support from family and friends, or professionals who understand their struggles intimately. On a concluding note, Dr Sneha Sathe, fertility consultant, Nova IVF Fertility Chembur says, “Counselling can help couples to sail through this issue.  Joining support groups allows them to connect with others in similar situations and realize they are not alone in their journey. It provides an outlet for sharing experiences openly without fear or judgment while giving them access to resources and coping strategies such as following a well-balanced diet, exercising daily, opting for relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation, practising self-care and maintaining an optimum weight.” 

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