Facing Infertility Together

Infertility is a circumstance that many couples must face. Facing infertility can be a daunting prospect, but when you approach the prospect of infertility together, you will be able to come out stronger as a couple - and handle the frustrating nature of infertility as best as possible. If you and your spouse are currently facing infertility, consider the following options that will help you face this difficult concern.

Attend infertility counseling together

First, you should consider attending infertility counseling together. Infertility counseling specifically deals with the issues of infertility and can provide a safe space for you and your spouse to discuss how you are feeling, find solutions and methods for dealing with those feelings, and generally have an open line of communication with each other that will go a long way towards making it possible to deal with infertility together. Infertility counseling can also help you process the complex feelings that come with infertility issues, which can often take a serious toll on your mental health.

You may also want to consider attending group therapy regarding infertility, if you would prefer discussing the issue with other couples who are facing similar problems.

Don’t repress negative thoughts and feelings

One of the most common mistakes that couples make when facing infertility is repressing their negative thoughts and feelings about the situation; repressing negative thoughts and feelings typically leads to ‘blow ups,’ usually in ways that are hurtful to other people. This type of repression can only lead to problems down the line, so it’s important that you address your negative thoughts and feelings in a timely manner. Counseling can help you uncover ways to address your feelings in a healthy way, rather than bottling them up and letting them explode.

Focus on a passion, hobby or goal to keep your mind off the stress of infertility

Concerns over infertility can take a lot out of you in an emotional and physical way. To help combat this draining aspect, find a passion or hobby or goal that will help keep you occupied while you deal with infertility concerns. For instance, you could start going on daily bike rides, pick up an embroidery hobby, make a goal of renovating the garage - anything that keeps your mind and body focused on something else.  You may also find that a healthier body and mind will contribute positively to your fertility issues.

Decide if you are open to other possibilities

There is always a chance that your infertility concerns may not be resolved. If you and your spouse are open to other possibilities as a solution to starting a family in a new way - such as the possibility of surrogacy or adoption - then that is something which should be discussed. Not every couple will be open to other possibilities, and that's okay: what’s important is that you and your spouse openly and actively discuss the situation before coming to any final decisions.

Final Thoughts

Facing infertility is not an easy task. But when you approach infertility as something to face together with your spouse, and keep the above tips in mind, you and your spouse will get through things together, no matter the outcome.