If you and your partner are having trouble conceiving, this is probably a very difficult time for you. You have probably tried almost everything you have read online, used the fertility blend that your fertility doctor recommended, and said all your prayers but still haven’t had any luck. You might be suffering from anxiety and depression as a result, and the whole situation may also take a toll on your relationship with your partner. This is a very difficult situation to be in, and let’s not even talk about the pressure from your friends and family that is driving you crazy. If it has become apparent that you cannot conceive, or your partner is impotent, the best thing for you to do is to accept and move on. However, this is not as easy as it sounds. It might be a good idea for you to see a therapist to help you through this journey. Therapy for infertility tackles the following issues:
- Self-esteem – You might feel like a failure for being unable to conceive and this can take a toll on your self-esteem. Your therapist can help you regain your self-esteem and help you realize that you are still a complete human being even though you cannot have a child.
- Grief – Infertility can lead to grief and in fact, it can be as bad as the pain of losing a living child. This is especially the case when a woman miscarries. Many people do not understand this, so finding someone who understands what you are going through and can walk with you through it will help a great deal.
- Relationship issues – As mentioned above, infertility can really strain your relationship with your partner. A therapist who understands the root cause of your problems can help you sort out your issues and mend your relationship. Yes, it is difficult to accept that you will never be able to conceive, but no, it is not the end of the world. Your therapist will help you and your partner come to terms with the fact that you cannot conceive and clear any feelings of anger or hatred that may be affecting your relationship. You will then be able to provide each other with the companionship that you both need.
- Other options – If you still really want to have a child, your therapist can discuss your options with you and help you make a decision that is agreeable for both you and your partner. Some of your options include surrogate parenting, adoption, and artificial insemination, among others. This is a big commitment and you need to be sure of what you want before proceeding. You and your partner need to have healed and to be in the right frame of mind before you can pursue any of these options. Your therapist can help you through this difficult journey.
The best therapist to see for this kind of issues is a family or marriage therapist as they have probably dealt with such cases before. You might even be lucky to find a therapist who focuses on fertility issues. Such a therapist will be able to discuss your options with you if you still want to have a child.