The first thing that couples going through infertility treatment must learn is to accept their situation and be realistic about it. They need to acknowledge that having children may take longer than expected, and that they will have to adjust their expectations accordingly. It is important for them to communicate openly and honestly about their feelings and desires regarding parenthood. This can help them avoid resentment towards each other and maintain a positive attitude towards the future.
Dealing with stress and anxiety
Infertility treatments are physically and emotionally draining, which can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety in both partners. Couples should prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques to manage these feelings. They should also find ways to reduce the frequency and intensity of arguments, such as taking breaks from discussing infertility issues during certain times of the day or week. Communicating openly and constructively can help prevent misunderstandings that could escalate into conflicts.
Sexual intimacy
While infertility treatment can cause physical discomfort, pain, and fatigue, it does not mean that sexual intimacy needs to stop completely. Couples can explore different positions, use lubricants, experiment with vibrator toys, or try new sex games to keep things exciting. They can also focus on non-sexual aspects of intimacy like cuddling, holding hands, and sharing stories. This can help sustain closeness while they wait for treatments to work.
Couples can consider participating in fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) such as the Billings Method or Natural Family Planning to deepen their understanding of their bodies and improve communication.
Support groups and resources
Couples going through infertility treatment may benefit from joining support groups where they can share their experiences with others who understand what they are going through. These groups provide a safe space for emotional support and practical advice on navigating the medical system. They can also connect couples with doctors, counselors, and other professionals who specialize in reproductive health. Online communities and social media platforms offer additional opportunities for connecting with people who have similar experiences.
Finding hope and purpose
Despite challenges, couples should remember that they are not alone in this journey and there is always hope for success. They can seek out positive stories about families who overcame infertility or focus on pursuing hobbies and interests outside of parenthood. Remaining optimistic and resilient can help them stay connected even when treatments fail.
Successful or unsuccessful, they will emerge stronger and more resilient for having gone through this experience together.
How do couples sustain intimacy after prolonged infertility treatments?
Sustaining intimacy between partners can be challenging for many reasons, but it may become particularly difficult when one partner is undergoing prolonged fertility treatments that require considerable time, money, energy, and emotional investment. Couples dealing with infertility issues often experience stress, anxiety, and sadness, which can negatively affect their relationship and lead to communication breakdowns, resentment, and mistrust.