Infertility affects one in ten couples. It is a medical problem that is diagnosed after one year of frequent sexual
intercourse without conception or carrying the pregnancy to full term. About 35% of infertility cases can be linked
to physical problems in the woman and 35% to the man. Infertility is either unexplained or the result of problems in both
partners in the remaining 30% of cases.
The inability to have children can be one of the greatest emotional, physical and financial challenges anyone can have.
There is tremendous stress put on the couple's relationship and all of the family/friend relationships as well. Physically
there are many medical examinations, medical tests, and medications with serious side effects. Surgery may also be required.
These processes may take years with many disappointments. Guilt, blame, depression may result. Sometimes social isolation
sets in. It is hard to be around friends or family if there are young children and babies present.
Clearly get the best medical treatment you can. Then be aware that depression plays an important role in infertility.
With treatment of depression, there is an increase in the likelihood of pregnancy. Why this link occurs is unknown but a hormonal
reason is possible. Alice Domar Ph.D., the founder and director of the Mind/Body Program for Infertility in Boston, has demonstrated
that a 10 session mind/body therapy group for women increases the pregnancy rate significantly. Fifty-five percent of women
in the group conceive within one year compared to 20% of control groups. Forty-two percent of these conceive without medical
interventions.
