Many people assume that having children will be straightforward. It can be distressing to find out that you or your partner has a fertility problem.
For many couples, fertility problems come as a great surprise as no prior reproductive health issues had been known. Even very strong relationships can be challenged by infertility as both partners manage their own feelings while trying to support each other.
Both infertility and its treatment can be challenging
When going through fertility treatment, it can be difficult not to let infertility take over your life. Many couples struggle to maintain a sense of balance when so much is focused on the success or failure of the treatment. Life may be put on hold, with the future suddenly seeming very uncertain.
Experiencing infertility and its treatment is likely to bring up many emotions. The partner with the infertility problem may feel guilt; they may think it makes them less of a man or less of a woman. The other person may feel resentful or concerned for their partner. Both may worry whether the relationship will survive. The treatment can feel invasive and often creates a cycle of hope and crushing disappointment.
Alongside the emotional issues, infertility treatment brings practical and physical pressures. Procedures are time-consuming and, if undertaken privately, expensive. Treatments may be painful or make a person feel unwell.
After an unsuccessful cycle, the decision of whether to try again can be incredibly difficult. Couples weighing up the emotional, practical and physical costs against an uncertain outcome may find themselves in painful disagreement.
While therapy does not treat infertility itself, it can support you through the process. We can help you cope with the emotional aspects and minimise pressures on your relationship.
Our individual or couples therapists will help
Infertility may feel like a personal struggle or like a relationship issue. Whether you prefer to come to therapy on your own or with your partner, we have warm, experienced counsellors to help you.
While therapy cannot change the outcome of your fertility treatment, it can make the process less stressful and strengthen your relationship.
If infertility treatment is successful and you manage to conceive, you may feel ready to stop therapy at that point. Alternatively, you may choose to continue your counselling through the pregnancy, as this can also be an anxious time.
If fertility treatment is sadly unsuccessful and you stop trying to conceive, you will likely go through a period of grief. You will be in mourning for the loss of the dreamt-of child, and your relationship will need to adjust to a different future. If you wish to continue with therapy through this very difficult time, we will be happy to support you.
Getting started with infertility therapy in London
If you are considering counselling for infertility, you can book online or by phoning 0333 207 9330.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, but our counsellors will put you at ease. There is no pressure to continue after your initial consultation. It is an opportunity for you to find out more and get a feel for whether One Therapy London is right for you.
Need infertility support now?
Appointments are available on weekdays from 7.30 am until 8.30 pm and at weekends from 7.30 am until 7.30 pm.
Meet our therapists working with infertility and fertility treatment issues
