I-15: The Emotional Impact of Infertility and Assisted Reproduction: Are Psychological Support and Counseling Helpful

To describe the emotional impact of infertility and its treatment and to identify the typical accompanying psychosocial stressors. Gender differences in the coping styles of men and women confronted with these stressors and effective treatment interventions will be discussed. In recent years, the number of couples seeking treatment for infertility has grown substantially around the world. Several factors account for this demand including the postponement of childbearing in women, a growing public awareness of treatment options, and the availability of innovative techniques in assisted reproduction. While no longer considered psychogenic, the impact of infertility and its treatment is described as a state of ongoing distress. Infertile couples, often overwhelmed by the physical, financial and emotional demands of infertility treatment, may experience anxiety, depression, marital discord and social isolation. As a result, psychological support and counseling is an integral part of many fertility treatment centers. Women describe infertility as the most upsetting experience of their lives while men report less psychosocial distress. Prolonged treatment increases couple conflict and stress, but ultimately infertility results in a closer marital relationship. In addition to providing support for couples in crisis, fertility counselors provide guidance for those negotiating the sometimes ethically and psychologically complex decisions regarding assisted reproduction. In conclution, psychological support is an integral part of fertility treatment.