6 challenges with infertility and how to cope with them

Infertility is an emotional journey for every couple. This journey has many ups and downs, long waiting times and therefore requires a positive attitude. In India, infertility is still seen and considered as a women’s problem and therefore can affect her more than a man. Dealing with these overwhelming feelings of sadness and anxiety can be difficult for both partners. Knowing the challenges that come with infertility and the practical steps you can take to relieve the tension can help you manage the problem.

6 challenges of infertility

1. Marital instability

One of the most important and important issues faced by a couple dealing with infertility is a stable marriage. It is not easy for the couple to accept each other with infertility problems. Comparisons and mutual finger pointing are the most common. At the same time, the couple also experiences pressure from family and relatives, leading to more stress.

2. Unwilling to undergo treatment

Compared to women, men may refuse to undergo certain medical examinations. The fertility counselor cannot treat the couple unless proper screening is done. This can lead to difficult conversations with your partner about your next steps. There may be disagreements about what kind of solution to find or what kind of help to seek. If you have been trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant for more than a year, it is advisable to consult a specialist.

3. Lack of awareness

It’s natural for a couple to have confusion about treatment. It is also true that they reach the fertility centers or experts very late due to a lack of information. Couples usually want to solve their infertility problems without knowing the scientific reason. For the same reason, they may not be able to start with the decision to see the fertility specialist to start the recommended treatment.

4. Problems with physical intimacy or sexual relationships

Couples experience stress and anxiety when they are unable to conceive naturally. This affects their sexual relationships and, as a result, their entire married life. Physical or sexual relationships become more of a chore than a pleasure.

5. Communication Problems

In any relationship it is important to have space for good and healthy communication. Communication involves freedom to express yourself, active listening, accepting and not judging one another. It is important to create a comfortable environment for communication. However, people with fertility issues either don’t like to communicate or are not heard when they are willing to communicate.

Also read: Infertility: 6 lifestyle issues that can delay conception

6. Relationships with extended family members can be ruined

Infertility has been presented as a social rather than a biological problem, and the couple must be willing to face family members as one. Situations such as disharmony with in-laws, threats of abandonment, stigma, discrimination and physical abuse are still common in Indian households today. Facing society and still staying strong is one of the most difficult situations for couples, especially women. Although male infertility is a reality, women face many embarrassing questions from relatives regarding infertility and treatment.

How to deal with the challenges that come with infertility?

Every couple dealing with infertility has always been the victim of negative comments, emotional harassment, and family and community pressures. Negative situations and the environment are nothing new for them. But facing them and living with a positive attitude is not as easy as it looks. Avoiding such situations may not be possible. But it can be managed with certain mindset changes, a positive attitude, and through certain life changes.

Here are 6 tips for overcoming the challenges that come with infertility:

1. Communicate

Communication is the first step to a healthy relationship. Talking to the spouse and listening to each other without bias or prejudice will help the couple see things clearly. It’s okay to have different opinions or perspectives. However, it is important to have empathic communication where you listen and understand the other person’s point of view.

2. Spend quality time

Everyone is busy and will be busy with work and career growth. Making time for each other every day, even if it’s just for a short time, can bring many positive changes. Spending time doing things you both enjoy, sharing at least one meal together, taking a day off from a busy schedule, planning a short trip (if that’s possible), and finding a little happiness together, this fertility journey can become less stressful.

3. Support each other

You are not alone on this journey. Your partner also experiences similar and the same feelings as you. He/she may find it difficult to accept and deal with everything about infertility. Be it treatments, expectations from family, relatives or their own feelings that keep them from many things. Being supportive and available can bring the emotional support they need to face reality.

4. Seek support

For some people, infertility can begin to affect their daily lives. People going through these situations need professional help, and it’s okay to see a mental health professional. Getting rid of the taboo of psychological counseling is an important part of our own growth. Mental health is more important than physical health, and emotionally strong people are in a better position to face anything. Timely help and support are the only cures for an emotionally healthy life.

Also read: Ever heard of fertility meditation? Well, it can help you get pregnant!

5. Plan it out

Disagreements, confusion, and misunderstandings are a part of every new decision we make. These emotions and feelings are good provided we plan a particular way to meet them. A practical resolution of things and a willingness to discuss solutions can bring good results and balance to your married life.

6. Get expert advice

Nothing is better than getting professional advice. Most worries, confusions and fears can be answered by visiting a fertility professional. The expert reviews and finds out the best available treatment options. This also helps the couple to be physically and emotionally prepared for the treatment.

The last word

A famous quote says, “A good relationship is when someone accepts your past, supports your present, and encourages your future.” This is very suitable for all types of relationships. People facing infertility need that “extra” for each other. Have faith in your relationship and believe that you can both handle this difficult but temporary challenge.

With time and the necessary support, you can solve these problems. There are several treatment options that will help you with your partner. The most important thing to take care of is your relationship. Don’t let your partner go through this alone. Communicate and make it a little easier for them.