Psychological effects of infertility treatment

Link between infertility and mental health

Infertility has an impact on the physical, emotional, sexual, spiritual, and economic psychology of one’s life. The more physically and emotionally demanding and intrusive a patient’s medical treatment becomes, the more anxiety and depression symptoms are reported. Anger, betrayal, feeling of remorse, grief, and even hope are some common side effects that ride the emotional roller coaster with each passing cycle.

Societal pressure leads to self-blame

One of the most difficult consequences of infertility has been the loss of control over one’s life. Many women have characterised infertility treatment as unpleasant and a cause of interpersonal issues with their partners. This is best explained by the fact that a woman is taught the value of parenthood throughout her youth and adulthood and is driven to demonstrate that being a mother is the core of her identity.

As a result, women typically experience a sense of loss of identity, as well as feelings of inferiority and ineptness.

Effect of one's mental state on the result of the treatment

Psychological issues may also impact the outcome of infertility treatment. Several studies have looked at stress and mood as factors that could negatively impact the outcome of assisted reproduction technology. Tension, uneasiness, and feeling mentally distressed are all linked to decreased pregnancy rates among infertile patients.

FAQ

Can infertility cause PTSD?

As the process is really traumatising and stressful, researchers have found that the treatment process can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What is social infertility?

Social infertility is when couples are not able to reproduce due to sexual orientation rather than their reproductive system.

What effect does stress have on female fertility?

The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which governs the reproductive system, can be turned off by stress. This can cause ovulation to be delayed or absent, as well as irregular or missed periods.