According to the CDC, approximately 10% of women in the United States between the ages of 15 and 44 have difficulty becoming or staying pregnant. If you are seeing an infertility doctor, you are not alone. It can be challenging to cope with this situation, so it’s important to understand the toll that it takes and learn how to overcome those feelings.  

The Toll It Takes

While seeing an infertility doctor can help with the physical aspect of the condition, infertility can have a significant emotional impact on you as a woman. You may feel social pressure to have your own children, you may feel judgment from others, even if they are well-intentioned, and it may be frustrating that you cannot get pregnant when it is something you want very badly.

It’s common for women to lose their self-esteem, feel as though they are inadequate, and feel jealous of others who do not experience their challenges. Depression, anxiety, anger, feelings of isolation, and loss of control are common. In fact, depression levels in infertility patients are comparable to patients diagnosed with cancer.

How to Cope Effectively

The first step in coping is to give a name to what you feel, so you can acknowledge them. Burying those emotions will not make them go away – this can worsen depression or anxiety. Once you know what you’re feeling, you can talk about them with loved ones or a therapist.

Joining an infertility support group can be a wonderful safe space to discuss your feelings and see how you are not alone in your experience. Allow yourself to grieve, feel anger, or cry. These emotions are perfectly normal, and experiencing them is healthy.

Communicate with your partner and stay connected to your loved ones throughout your treatment with your infertility doctor. This support network is valuable. Find ways to reduce your stress, such as meditating, exercising, or spending time with loved ones.

Dr. William M. Jamieson, MD is an experienced infertility doctor for women in Cincinnati and throughout southwestern Ohio. Dr. Jamieson is a board-certified gynecologist and obstetrician specializing in infertility issues and gynecologic surgery. This clinic provides the highest level of care and respects your time by ensuring you won’t need to wait for your appointment. Learn more about their services on their website and call (513) 241-7744 to schedule an appointment.