Mental Health Impact of Infertility

The Story

Fertility Network UK has conducted a survey looking into the mental health impact of fertility problems. The results are staggering.

The Snapshot

A survey by Fertility Network UK found that 90% of people struggling with fertility problems reported feeling depressed. 50% said that they felt out of control and experienced emotions of frustration, helplessness, sadness, fear and worry. 42% of respondents said that they had experienced suicidal thoughts.

The Lesson

Dennis Relojo-Howell, Managing Director at psychology website Psychreg, has offered an insight into the relationship between fertility problems and mental health.

“There is a bidirectional relationship between infertility and mental health disorders. Studies have demonstrated that infertility can lead to depression and anxiety. Patients can also experience reduced self-esteem,” says Relojo-Howell.

“While we tend to cast our gaze to women when it comes to infertility, case studies have shown that infertility can impact both women and men in similar ways. However, women have been observed to seek help more than men. For those who experience the mental and emotional toll brought by infertility, it is crucial that they speak to their doctors and mental health professionals and ask what kinds of services are available,” says Relojo-Howell.

You Might Also Dig:

• Best Fertility-Friendly Lubricants When Trying to Get Pregnant
• How to Improve Sperm Motility
• Stop Wearing Underwear and Watch What Happens to Your Body