For many, the notion of a perfect life includes someday having children. While some start early, others wait until later in life—but almost everyone expects the process of starting or growing their family to be as simple as making the decision to start. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case as infertility is more common than many people realize. And if talking about infertility itself is difficult, it’s not a stretch to think that talking about the mental health ramifications of infertility is that much more difficult.

Why Don’t We Talk About It? 

To some degree, it’s no surprise that infertility isn’t a common conversation topic. After all, it’s a deeply personal subject, like any other health issue, but also related to intimacy and a person’s most cherished dreams for life. It can be hard for both the person going through fertility complications and those in their lives. Hidden shame may also add to the reluctance to discuss infertility, which can stop both men and women from seeking help. 

Many don’t realize that while it may be more common in people nearing their forties or fifties, infertility can affect young and seemingly healthy adults. It can occur in women with regular, healthy menstrual cycles and no previously recognized fertility issues. Infertility complications can seem to arise out of nowhere, disrupting life plans in a moment—and with every passing month, it’s easy to become more and more disheartened. 

And making the decision to schedule an appointment with a fertility clinic doesn’t always alleviate the stress. Unfortunately Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) such as IUI or IVF are financially cumbersome, emotionally draining, and physically demanding. 

Ultimately being diagnosed as infertile can lead to mental health issues like grief, anxiety, depression, and more, which can result in:

• Strains on marriages and partnerships
• A reduction in focus and productivity at work
• Absenteeism at work
• Isolation from loved ones and more

Infertility Affects the Mental Health of Partners

Despite common perceptions, infertility can affect a partner’s mental health just as much as it does their counterparts. While the woman trying to carry may be more likely to express these internal troubles at a more conscious level, partners may also experience strain and feelings of inadequacy—especially men who may be facing their own sperm health issues. 

A couple struggling with infertility may become less social following their diagnosis. While this self-isolation is a normal reaction, it can also amplify feelings of distress, depression, anxiety, and worthlessness. 

You Have Options

There’s no reason to suffer in silence if you are having trouble conceiving. There are many options to help diagnose and treat your fertility complications—and get the mental and emotional support you need during these difficult times.

For support, we suggest trying meditation, journaling, opening up to loved ones, joining a support group, or finding a counselor to discuss your emotions with.

Famlee can help take the mystery out of your infertility and put you back in control by assessing any hormonal imbalances. 

We can help you make sense of your hormonal health with an easy-to-use at home test kit. Simply collect the required samples in the comfort of your own home, send them out in the provided shipping box, and we will analyze the results. 

Then we will discuss the test results and walk you through a customized treatment plan just for you.

By putting control back into your hands, Famlee can empower you to continue your conception journey and hopefully put the pain of infertility far behind you.