The Experience of Infertility: An Unexpected Barrier in the Transition to Parenthood

Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve a pregnancy or deliver a live birth after one year of regular sexual intercourse without the use of contraceptives. Infertility commonly represents an interruption in a couple’s normative life course, and as such, the stress individuals and couples endure is substantial as they attempt to resolve this unexpected barrier to parenthood. The specific stressors faced by men and women include significant emotional, physical, and psychological burdens. Coping strategies can include avoidance, seeking social support, emotional self-controlling, cognitive distancing, and finding new meaning. The effectiveness of these strategies varies by gender. Although strategies which are shown to be beneficial for individuals can positively impact one’s partner, they can also have a negative impact. Counseling strategies can provide couples with tools to help navigate the infertility experience, strengthen their relationships, assist in decision-making, and facilitate feelings of grief and loss. At a societal level, infertility can also be addressed by enhancing provider education and increasing fertility awareness. Primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention strategies are critical to address the expansive needs of individuals who are affected, or may be affected, by infertility. Finally, societies can promote preventative efforts that serve individuals and communities in the effort to reduce the prevalence and distress resulting from infertility.