Dr. D shares some general observations from his daily clinical encounters with couples:
“In general, men and women deal with infertility in different ways. It has been shown that women are quicker to become distressed about infertility than their male partner, and often struggle with jealousy when another person around them conceives. My experience supports this data.
Additionally, both men and women tend to have lowered self-esteem if the diagnosis or perception of the problem is related to his/her body, respectively. Men frequently even deny that they could be a contributing factor until it has been demonstrated to them objectively.
All of these differences place a strain on the ability of a couple to empathize with one another appropriately during a time that they desperately need each other’s support.”
As you can see, both men and women are affected emotionally and physically on this journey. Opening the lines of communication, being honest, and supporting each other is such an important part of the fertility journey.
?Join us back here tomorrow as we discuss *The Strains on Intimacy.