Psychology and infertility

Inability to conceive: the physical and mental challenges

Pregnancy, parenthood and an inability to conceive are all very emotional experiences. The psychological and emotional aspects that accompany such big life decisions and changes need to be taken into account just as much as the physical effects. Modern medicine is increasingly accepting that the mind and body are very closely interrelated: constant internal stress can also have a physical impact.

The psychological factors entailed in an inability to conceive are complex: they may occur as a side effect of fertility treatment, as a result of being unable to conceive over a long period of time or can sometimes even be the actual cause of infertility.

There is a correlation between psychology and infertility

Modern medicine offers a wide range of diagnoses and treatment methods. Today, it is possible to precisely pinpoint the causes of an inability to conceive, which allows us to quickly start the right treatment methods. The emotional aspects are often more difficult to treat than the physical fertility problem. We will guide you through your journey and will be on hand for any questions you may have.

Stress has an effect on hormone production

The effect of stress on the body is very often underestimated. It does have a significant effect on hormone production, which can reduce both male and female fertility.

Psychological effects on women

The stress of an unfulfilled desire for children can have an effect on the hormonal balance. The menstrual cycle is controlled exclusively by hormonal processes. Under extreme stress, it is possible that not enough hormones, or even no hormones at all, will be released. In some circumstances, this means ovulation does not occur, and fertilisation cannot take place.

Psychological effects on men

The psychological effects of the inability to conceive does not just affect women; men are usually equally affected. This has an impact on the hormonal balance and fertility in the male body as well. Sperm production is reduced, meaning the ejaculated semen contains fewer sperm cells. In addition, their motility is also affected, making fertilisation more difficult.

Inability to conceive and its impact on a relationship

If couples decide to undergo fertility treatment, the initial focus is usually on a diagnosis and the treatment process. During the treatment, the prospect of successful pregnancy is paramount. If this doesn’t happen, this can have an impact on the relationship. We recommend openly discussing a few questions before even starting treatment in our centres. If you have any questions at all about fertility treatment, we will be more than happy to offer supportive guidance. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time.

Psychological consultation at our fertility centres

At our fertility centres we attach great importance to holistic treatment. We take the impact of the mind on infertility very seriously and plan our treatments accordingly. For this reason, if you visit one of our fertility centres, we will examine you not just for physical causes. One element of our treatment is our trusting and honest relationships with our patients. We offer you psychological consultations by trained specialists, or we can recommend these to you. Treating you from both a physical and psychological perspective increases your chances of pregnancy.

Psychological burdens – what can you do?

Our team will be on hand and can help you with your individual situation.

• Give yourself some rest: In our hectic everyday lives, peace and relaxation often get forgotten. However, your mind and body need these breaks in order to recuperate and gain strength.

• Be realistic: We will propose a treatment plan tailored specifically to you and will do our best to fulfill your dream of having children. Bear in mind the possibility that you may go through several unsuccessful attempts and approaches, or that fertility treatment may not be right for you.

• Be honest: With yourself and with your partner. If the stress becomes too much for you, you should be open with your partner – and us as well. We will help you to find a solution.