Psychology of Infertility: Psychological Reactions to Infertility and Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Abstract

Reproduction can be considered as a basic function of human individuals. Inability to procreate, thus infertility, is a widespread
problem in our day societies, given that the population suffering infertility is drastically increased in the past decades. Infertility is defined
as failure to conceive after one year of unprotected timed intercourse. According to demographic studies, only half of people suffering
infertility, seek medical assistance for their problem. The experience of difficulties in conception, thus the diagnosis of infertility and its
treatment are frequently associated with anxiety and overall distress.The rapid scientific and medical advantages in the assisted
reproductive technologies and the growth of fertility treatments worldwide, has added a focus on this regard, in the last two decades.
Although the treatments are relatively easily available in most Western countries today, the psychosocial consequences of these
“hightech” treatments have scarcely been addressed. Infertility is considered as an individual and couple experience that affects not only
the relationship between the couple but also the family social and psychological status. As the available technology has developed along
with the vicissitudes of fertility treatments, patients have turned to help professions that may support in dealing with the many stresses
inherent to the experience and treatment of infertility. Much of the research on infertility reinforces differing affects for women and men,
with women reporting to experience greater levels of psychological distress, in response to infertility, than men. However women report
to be more likely to seek information and assistance and may be better able to identify and access other areas of potential social support
outside of their marriages. The purpose of this article is to explore the psychology of infertility, specifically the theoretical implication of
assessment and evaluation, psychological reactions to infertility and assisted reproductive technologies, with a special emphasis on
gender differences.