Having children is one of the main purposes of many couples, being a vitally important issue. However, in some cases, it may be difficult to conceive a baby. Infertility, as a consequence, can cause a lot of stress in the couple’s relationship , or, consolidate it.
What negative impact does infertility have on the couple’s relationship?
When it comes to infertility, it refers to the inability to conceive a child naturally despite having regular unprotected relationships for at least a year. This inability to have a child can occur in one or both members of the relationship.
At the time of being diagnosed with infertility, the couple can present a great amount of emotions and feelings. Feelings of frustration and helplessness are often manifested in the relationship due to not being able to conceive.
Also, you can feel guilty and angry. All this can generate great tension in the couple, which is aggravated if there is not good communication . Another factor that could negatively influence this situation is the pressure to which both members of the couple may be subjected.
In some homes and cultures, married couples may be pressured to have children as soon as possible. Also, in cases of infertility, some religions point to this condition as divine punishment. All of this can lead to more stress and negative feelings in the couple. Among the main negative consequences are:
- Feelings of guilt
- Stress.
- Anxiety.
- Frustration or helplessness.
- Anger or irritability.
- Isolation.
- Loss of appetite
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia).
- Feeling of hopelessness
- Decreased libido
- Feeling of inferiority.
- Depression.
That is why it is essential that both of you see a fertility professional and a couples psychologist .
The first will help them evaluate the possibilities and alternatives they have to conceive (in vitro insemination, surrogacy, adoption …).
The second will help them to express their feelings in a healthy way so that nothing is repressed and they can strengthen the relationship.
Could it have a positive impact?
On the other hand, infertility can not only have a negative impact on the couple’s relationship. Although the fact that it can be devastating news is undeniable, this will also depend on the attitude that both take to the situation.
It is essential that both see support in the other and that they do not close themselves off to other possibilities. Some couples see this as an opportunity to strengthen their ties and fight together for a cause.
By exploring the different assisted reproduction options, the couple will be able to choose the one that best suits them according to their principles and economic capacities. Thanks to advances in the field of medicine, couples have multiple alternatives for having children .
One of the most popular is in vitro fertilization, but you can also choose a surrogate mother. In case there is no possibility of any of the above, there is still the option to adopt.
However, if they decide to give up the process to become parents, they can develop a new life plan. Of course, the latter could be difficult, however, with professional help, they will be able to cope.
Although infertility can be a difficult situation, it is important that the couple not dwell on the negative aspects.
This can be an opportunity to renew the relationship , reinforce partner support and teamwork. It can also be an opportunity to set new goals and develop a life plan in which both are the main protagonists.