Reproductive Psychology
Psychological Support for Coping With:
Infertility
Fertility treatments (e.g. IUI, IVF)
Male-factor infertility
Egg-donor or surrogacy
Relationship strain from infertility
Pregnancy Loss
Compassionate Care
Fertility issues affect both the mind and body; often leading to stress, shame, anxiety, and depression. I work hard to provide a caring, non-judgmental, validating space to process and explore the myriad of thoughts and feelings around these challenges. I have a fundamental understanding of the most common obstacles and interventions for infertility and fertility treatments; however, I also understand that each person’s path is shaped by unique goals, struggles, and experiences. I welcome people of all genders, sexual orientations, and family structures who are struggling with fertility issues and looking for support.
Infertility and Mental Health
For some, trying to start or expand a family can be very trying times, both physically and mentally. According to the latest statistics from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 20% of married women (15-49 yrs.) struggle with infertility, with about 12% who have sought fertility treatment. The decision to pursue fertility treatment can weigh heavy. While reproductive interventions (e.g. IUI, IVF, surrogacy) offer more hope than ever for individuals and couples to achieve their family planning goals, it can often be emotionally overwhelming. The journey can be full of questions, tests, long periods of waiting, and difficult decisions with no guarantee for answers or results. When trying to conceive - with or without assistance - a range of painful emotions can emerge, including depression and anxiety. In fact, research has shown that the severity of depression and anxiety experienced in women diagnosed with infertility is equal to patients diagnosed with cancer, HIV, and heart disease.
Infertility and Relationships
As if the individual stress from infertility were not enough, it is all happening within the context of everyday life, which often requires interaction with others. Relationships with partners can become strained. Everything from difficult financial decisions for treatment to the role of sex in the relationship can become unpleasant realities that may have never existed before. Relationships with family and friends can also become treacherous. Fielding unsolicited questions about having children and invitations to baby showers and birthday parties get more and more painful. People may notice feelings of anger and resentment, as well as an urge to avoid gatherings and events in efforts to protect themself. Such emotional and behavioral changes can further compound the pain.
Pregnancy Loss
The loss of a pregnancy can be one of the most painful and isolating experiences for a person to endure. The World Health Organization (WHO) cites stigma and shame as primary factors for withdrawal and grief. The depression and anxiety associated with pregnancy loss can persist for years if untreated and may not resolve even after subsequent births.