When Couples Need To Consider Infertility Counseling

By Edward Mitchell


For every couple that decides to have a family and turns up pregnant two months later, there is another pair that struggles with fertility issues. As women age, the possibility of getting pregnant and carrying a child to term becomes increasingly difficult and dangerous. Sometimes this issue takes over people's lives, and they need help handling the effects. When this happens, it's time consider infertility counseling.

Most couples have no idea they will have trouble conceiving. As it becomes apparent something is not working, partners can begin to panic. Sometimes one partner handles it better than the other, but both can be overwhelmed by the struggle. Once a couple acknowledges their strategies aren't working, they can discuss the option of talking to a counselor. This is someone who is trained to assist couples with new coping mechanisms and more effective communication strategies.

One partner may want to discuss the situation over and over again. The other partner might find it difficult to talk and would rather be told how to fix the problem. This can lead to frustration and anger. A counselor may meet with each partner individually and then together in order to recommend better communication techniques.

At some point, couples may come to a crossroad, and have trouble deciding how to go forward. Partners often disagree. Beginning IVF treatments is a big decision, and whether or not to continue them in the face of failure is an even greater one. The cost is only one factor. There is also the overwhelming stress and the toll it takes on a woman's body. Talking to a third party about the options is often a good way to get a realistic analysis of the situation.

There are alternatives to natural pregnancy and IVF. Sometimes couples only focus on one or two methods and don't seriously entertain any others. A counselor can bring up other options and help couples talk through the issues associated with all of them. For couples considering options like surrogacy or adoption, meeting with a counselor may be required.

When couples feel like they have run out of options, they are faced with the idea that having children will never happen for them. Living a childless life is something couples may have to adjust to. This requires a total change of mindset, and may require a professional to talk couples through the adjustment in their thinking.

Sometimes couples just need someone to listen to them, at whatever stage of the childbearing process they find themselves. Parents and close friends may be too invested in the outcome to be able to listen in a dispassionate way. Counselors are trained to listen with compassion. All information discussed is completely confidential, which can be a great concern for the couples involved.

Children are a blessing and not all people get to have them. Infertility can be heartbreaking, but there are ways to make differences in kids' lives all the same. It might take a professional to point out those possibilities and opportunities.




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