Dr Prerna Kohli

COPING STRATEGIES FOR COUPLES EXPERIENCING INFERTILITY

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Infertility occurs when a couple is unable to conceive despite engaging in regular, unprotected sexual activity for at least a year. Problems with both the male and female reproductive systems can lead to infertility. For males, sperm motility issues, low sperm counts, sperm morphology issues (abnormal sperm shape), and sperm ejection issues can all contribute to infertility. A variety of endocrine system, ovarian, fallopian tube, and uterine abnormalities can be the cause of infertility in females.

Infertility can be both Primary or Secondary. Primary infertility occurs when a couple has never been able to conceive. After successfully giving birth to a child in the past, a couple may experience secondary infertility, which makes it difficult for them to become pregnant and carry a child to term again. Many factors, such as age, lifestyle changes, weight gain, reproductive health, and others, may contribute to secondary infertility.

Both heterosexual and same-sex couples can experience infertility. The path to parenthood is filled with emotional, financial, and legal obstacles for same-sex couples. Finding a surrogate or egg donor can be a significant challenge for gay couples and lesbian couples alike.

The inability to conceive is a difficult condition to manage because, in addition to the physical issues, it can result in a host of emotional issues as well (such as feelings of failure, shame, anger, guilt, and inadequacy). It could lead to conflict between the spouses, financial strain, and a great deal of stress for the couple as they try to manage expectations from friends and family.

The lives of couples who are experiencing infertility are significantly impacted. Divorce, emotional stress, violence, social stigma, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression may affect women negatively. Males may feel inadequate, think they failed, feel guilty, have relationship problems, lose control, and view themselves as flawed.

For a couple’s emotional and physical well-being, coping with infertility is extremely important. Some techniques for doing so are as follows.

– Open communication between the couple. No matter how difficult it may be, it is crucial, to be honest, and it is equally crucial to respect each other’s feelings. Respecting your partner’s experience and accepting that they might not cope with things the same way you do is also essential.

– Rekindle your relationship’s intimacy. Take care of each other, go on dates, and pick up the activities that used to make you happy.

– Practising Self Care. According to Audre Lorde, taking care of oneself is a form of self-preservation. One can relax and improve their physical and mental health by taking up new hobbies or picking up old ones, going for a relaxing walk or practising yoga, among other things.

– Allowing yourself time to feel and recognise your emotions.

– Seeking emotional support can assist you in sorting through your feelings. Tell your family and close friends how you feel. Spend more quality time together with your children (in the case of secondary infertility).

– Look for expert assistance. It would aid in making more informed decisions, understanding your emotions, and dealing with them more effectively.

– Put your health first. Get regular exercise and eat well.

– Take a break from trying to conceive if things are getting too hard.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]