Dealing with fertility problems can be exhausting. But if you feel discouraged or depressed, remember that you’re not alone. Keep sharing your feelings with your partner. Take advantage of help from your healthcare provider, family, or support groups. And remember that no matter what happens, you and your partner can still look forward to a rewarding life together.
Getting support
If your stress and anxiety feel overwhelming, it often helps to share your feelings with someone. This could be your partner, a family member, or a friend. It could also be your healthcare provider, a therapist, or a clergy member. Another option is to ask your provider about joining a support group for couples dealing with fertility problems. Being in a support group can help keep you from feeling alone. You can also learn from the experiences of others.
Coping with your feelings
Trying to cope with fertility problems is a challenge you probably never expected. So it’s natural to find yourself having strong feelings at times. You may feel guilty, angry, or sad. You might start to resent other couples with children. Or you may simply be tired of having to schedule sex. Recognize that these feelings are not only common, they’re completely normal. Just don’t let them take over your life. Keep things in perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask for support if you need it.
Dealing with social situations
Over time, it’s likely that some people may unintentionally offend you with comments or questions. This can be upsetting. But just remember that they likely have no idea what it feels like to be in your shoes. It may help to explain your situation. But if you don’t want to talk about it, you don’t have to. If nothing else, tactfully changing the subject can help ease the situation.
Nurturing your relationship
Fertility problems can strain even the best relationships. That’s why supporting each other now is more important than ever. Be careful not to assign blame or lash out in anger. Instead, listen to each other. Share your feelings. And make time for intimacy and romance. Even little things like a day trip or a weekend away can help ease your stress.
Thinking things over
If you’ve been through a long period of treatment, consider taking a break to think things over. Just a month off can help ease some of the pressure you may be feeling. You might also use this time to reassess your goals or agree on a date to stop treatment. Deciding on a time to stop can be very hard. But many couples find that setting a deadline helps them regain a sense of control. It can also give you a fresh outlook on other options.
Looking at other options
It’s OK to decide to stop treatment. You and your partner still have options. One is to plan for a life together without children. This may seem strange at first. But not having children can still lead to a satisfying life in ways you may not have expected. If you still want children, adoption is a gratifying and enriching choice for many couples. Ask your healthcare provider for information about adoption agencies. Talk to other parents who’ve adopted. And if adoption isn’t for you, you may want to think about getting involved with organizations like Big Brothers/Big Sisters.
Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
Online Medical Reviewer: Heather Trevino
Online Medical Reviewer: Irina Burd MD PhD
Date Last Reviewed: 03/01/2024
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Compassionate Care for Women
San Juan Health Partners Obstetrics & Gynecology. With two locations serving Four Corners women.
Find a Doctor
Call for an Appointment
Offering personalized care at more than 20 clinics across three cities and two states.
Call NowRelated Articles
Uterine Sarcoma: Treatment Choices
There are many treatment choices for uterine sarcoma. Which choices work best for you depends on a number of things. These include the stage of your cancer, as well as your age, overall health, and what side effects you'll find acceptable.
Understanding Fertility Problems: Assisted Reproduction
ART may be needed for certain fertility problems. Or it may be used if other treatments haven’t helped. In most cases, these methods use hormone medicines along with other techniques to increase the chances of success.
Cervical Cancer: Treatment Choices
Cervical cancer can be treated. Treatment can be used to cure the cancer or control it to keep it from spreading. It can also help control symptoms or problems the cancer is causing.
Understanding Vulvoplasty
During a vulvoplasty, the outer female genitals are created. This includes the clitoris and inner and outer labia. Learn more about this procedure and the recovery.