Coping with infertility can be emotionally draining, and even though couples go through it together, men and women often take different approaches to dealing with the trauma. This can lead to anger and resentment from both parties. According to research cited by News-Medical.net, struggling to conceive can make a relationship more stressful and tense.
Infertility can also lead to feelings of isolation, especially if you do not want to discuss it with your friends and family because of their well-meaning but unsolicited advice. Fortunately, you can take comfort in the fact that you are not alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 12 percent of American women between the ages 15 and 44 struggle to conceive or to carry a pregnancy to term.
If you have been struggling to get pregnant, turn to Women’s Pelvic Surgery, Dr. Shakiba is a board-certified gynecologist and uro-gynecologist who will evaluate your reproductive health. Call 201-301-2772 to make an appointment with him today.
Read on to learn how you and your partner can stay strong while coping with the stress of trying to conceive:
Communication is the key to any healthy relationship, and couples who are going through a traumatic time need to put in extra effort when it comes to sharing their feelings and listening to their partner’s. It is important to remember that communication is a two-way street, and the only way it will help your relationship is if you are open and honest about your feelings.
Couples counseling is not just for marriages on the brink of divorce. It can also serve as a helpful tool for anyone going through a tough time. Look for a counselor who specializes in treating clients who are coping with infertility so you can get the most out of every session.
Going to individual counseling will ensure you have a safe space where you can discuss your own unique perspective without feeling the need to explain yourself. For example, if you feel resentful toward your partner because of the way he is handling the situation, you may not want to discuss it during a couple’s session, but you can address those emotions when seeing a therapist one-on-one.
Negativity breeds more negativity, so try to find at least a little positivity your day to day routine. It might be something as simple as going to your favorite restaurant, taking a hot bath, or indulging in a decadent dessert after dinner. Do not let the stress of infertility seep into every aspect of your relationship until you and your partner no longer enjoy spending time together.
If you have been trying to get pregnant for more than a year, chances are you stopped focusing on other aspirations. Talk to your spouse about your career ambitions, financial milestones, and personal goals that you want to achieve, and devise a plan for pursuing them. This will give you something else to think about when you are feeling especially overwhelmed about your ability to get pregnant.
If you are worried about your reproductive health, turn to Women’s Pelvic Surgery. Schedule an appointment by calling 201-301-2772.
