How the medicalization of reproduction takes the fun out of the process

Abstract General life stress is a significant source of sexual dysfunction and changes in intimacy in the male and/or female partner. When other contributors of stress are added, the likelihood of developing changes in sexuality increases. A diagnosis of infertility and the accompanying stressors not only has psychosocial repercussions but also clinical implications contributing to changes in sexuality within a couple. The medicalization of an infertility diagnosis can be said to “take the fun out of the process.” Consequently understanding the effects of infertility-related stress on sexuality is essential to the efficacious treatment of these patients. In this chapter, we discuss the psychosocial and clinical implications of infertility-related stress on the sexuality and intimacy of the man, woman, and couple. Additionally, the potential treatment interventions for the individual and couple are addressed.