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| One cannot accurately predict how long infertility may last or what the outcome of infertility treatment procedures may be. This uncertainty translates into a huge emotional burden for the couple involved as well as those close to them. While coping with infertility, the most important thing is to stay well informed throughout the treatment and evaluate each option thoroughly. |
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Getting Educated |
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The first step in coping with infertility is to be informed about infertility, its causes, and available treatment options. This applies not just to the couple itself, but to their family members and friends as well. One can gather information through magazines, Internet, and information booklets written by specialists. |
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Infertility Myths |
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Myth: Infertility is more prevalent in women.
Fact: Instances of male partners being the cause of infertility occur in 35% of the cases. Female partners are the causes in an identical 35% of the cases. 20% of the cases report at least one problem in both partners, while 10% still go unexplained.
Myth: Having sex every day will increase our chances of getting pregnant.
Fact: It is not how many times you have sex, but the timing of sex which matters. The 11th to 17th days of a woman’s menstrual cycle (of 28 days) is the best time to try for a baby.
Myth: Infertility is a more a psychological problem.
Fact: Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system. Over 50% of those who seek infertility treatment will experience a successful pregnancy.
Myth: You will get pregnant if you adopt a baby.
Fact: Adoption should be an end in itself, not a means to achieve pregnancy. Moreover, studies have proven that there is no basis for such a theory. |
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Consulting an Infertility Specialist |
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Make sure that you visit an infertility specialist as soon as you suspect infertility. An infertility specialist is well-versed in areas such as female and male reproductive systems, infertility process, reproductive endocrinology and management of infertility. You could consult a Reproductive Endocrinologist, or an Obstetrician, or a Gynecologist, or a Urologist, and undergo a complete fertility evaluation.
Do not be apprehensive to meet a specialist. Couples may inadvertently consult the wrong doctor or take a lot of time in deciding to consult a specialist. Such delays in consulting the right specialist often hamper the chances of achieving pregnancy. It is recommended that both partners approach the infertility specialist. On your first visit, you will be asked a few questions about your problem and any treatment(s) taken earlier. The doctor reviews the earlier test reports and treatment records. Basic examination of the couple follows and applicable investigations are recommended. This helps you to know your problem and what is to be done next.
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Emotional Support to Spouse |
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After confirming infertility and learning about your problem and the available treatment options, it is very important to lend your support to your spouse. Allow your partner to let out his/her feelings. Be open and truthful to each other. Face the problem together, discussing your social and financial situation, and take collective and well-informed decisions. |
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Understanding Each Other and Sharing Feelings |
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Every couple has its own way of sharing feelings. Sharing and understanding each other’s feelings significantly lessens the fear, anxiety, stress levels, and emotional burden experienced by a couple diagnosed with infertility. On the other hand, blaming each other serves no other purpose than worsening the situation. Infertility is a problem that should be tackled by the couple as a unit.
It is important not to get depressed. Share your feelings with a person whom you trust; he/she may advise you and help you lessen or overcome your emotional burden. The person may be a family member, or a friend, or a family counselor, or your doctor. |
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