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For couples who want to have a baby, infertility can be arduous, emotionally and psychologically. For couples who choose in vitro fertilization, the path to their joyous outcome is not always easy. Men and women have different roles in the process, and studies have shown their emotional journeys are different.

How In Vitro Fertilization Affects Men & Women Differently

1. Depression

Studies indicate that infertile women experience more symptoms of depression than fertile women. Infertile women sometimes experienced severe depression prior to in vitro. Men’s depression symptoms were far less than women’s, and men in couples who had successful in vitro fertilization were not any more depressed than men in fertile couples. Women also reported higher levels of depression on the day of their treatments.

2. Anxiety

Infertile women report higher levels of anxiety than fertile women. Among men, study results vary, with some reporting higher anxiety among men in infertile couples, and others indicating no difference. Some studies also showed that women deployed more coping strategies during fertility treatments to deal with stress and anxiety than men.

3. Sexual Issues

in vitro fertilizationBoth men and women can experience a decline in the quality of their sexual relationship during and after infertility treatments. During treatments, couples felt that the quality of their sexual relationship was compromised by the scheduling needs of IVF and the anxiety that arises as they await their outcome.  

4. Long-Term Effects

After unsuccessful IVF treatments, both men and women are in a grieving period, but women are more likely to be comfortable expressing it. Men, on the other hand, tend to suppress their grief and take on a supporting role.

While men and women experience some differences in the way they experience and react to infertility and in vitro fertilization, it’s clear that the experience is challenging for everyone. When choosing a fertility clinic, it’s important to look for one that’s prepared to help couples cope with the emotional and psychological stress that can result.   

 

Pacific In Vitro Fertilization Institute in Honolulu, HI, has been helping families have happy, healthy babies since 1985. This premier fertility clinic provides comprehensive treatments, from IVF to fertility preservation, and the experienced, compassionate physicians and staff offer the highest level of patient service. Call (808) 946-2226 or connect with the clinic on Facebook to learn more and begin your journey.

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