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Dealing with Depression during Infertility Treatment

Team AckoFeb 8, 2024

It is now well-known that infertility is a medical problem. However, feelings of guilt and secrecy still remain prevalent among most people with infertility. Not getting pregnant after trying for a prolonged period can be intensely disappointing and frustrating. Due to this, depression is very common in such cases. Even when people are going through infertility treatments, anxiety about whether the treatment will work can also undermine a person's mental health.

Contents

Here are our top suggestions to deal with infertility-related depression.
Reach out to others going through infertility issues
Find ways to reduce stress
Connect with your partner
Know your option

Why most people with infertility struggle with depression?

Some of the reasons people with infertility struggle with depression are as follows:

1. Anxiety is a major issue. Infertility can be a stressful experience, particularly where there is a lot of pressure on someone to get pregnant.

2. The emotional and physical challenges of treatment can at times become too much for some women, making them nervous and frustrated.

3. Some hormones used in infertility treatment can have side effects affecting a woman’s mood and making her more prone to depression.

4. Certain medical issues that can cause infertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may also increase the risk of depression.

Here are our top suggestions to deal with infertility-related depression.

Therapy

Therapy is a very effective way to treat depression. Therapy will allow you to discuss your feelings about infertility, set expectations, and identify strategies for improving your relationship with your partner.

Medication

There are many excellent medications available that are very effective in treating depression. Consult a specialist for advice on what would be best for you. Make sure you mention any side effects so the doctor can change the dose or type of medication.

Let yourself grieve

Repeated attempts at conception or multiple miscarriages can take a heavy toll. Unresolved grief can be a major source of stress, and it is advisable to allow yourself a period of mourning in order to work through your grief and feel whole again. Try talking to your partner or a close friend, or writing down your feelings.

Reach out to others going through infertility issues

It can be very helpful to reach out to and get support from other people with similar experiences in infertility. You can join an online forum or a physical support group. They can offer support for managing stress, keeping a relationship healthy, and reassure couples that they are not alone.

Find ways to reduce stress

Infertility and its associated processes are incredibly stressful, and it is vital to identify healthy ways to deal with it to prevent depression. You can try meditation, breathing, yoga, or Pilates. Focus on exercise, eating right, getting enough sleep, and indulging yourself once in a while, like having a spa day or a night out.

Connect with your partner

Infertility can deeply affect a marriage, leading to feelings of inadequacy, resentment, and stress. It is important to maintain the connect with your partner. Make sure you constantly share your feelings with each other in a positive and open manner. Some couples find that a new hobby or shared activity can help. If you feel that the stress of infertility is leading to distance between you and your partner, counselling is a good option.

Know your option

A large part of the depression around infertility is the feeling of powerlessness and being able to decide what to do next. The best thing to do is to fully understand what your infertility options are by talking to the right people who can guide you. Once you have a clear idea about what steps you can take, it will help you be calmer and deal with any stress in a healthier manner. Stay optimistic and focus on the positive aspects of your life.

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

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