Infertility Essay

1275 Words3 Pages

Infertility is reported to affect one in every six couples in Ireland (CAHR, 2005). Others advise that infertility effects one in every five couples (Murphy, 2008). Considering this high percentage rate of people affected by infertility in Ireland one would think that there would be a great level of public awareness about the condition and appropriate support services in place to support this vulnerable client group. Unfortunately this is not the case. While there has no doubt been substantial advances and developments in the medical field with regard to treating infertility through assisted reproductive technologies (ART) which is a welcomed development for those struggling with infertility. However, little has been done to develop emotional and psychological support services for this client group.
Infertility has been classified as being a major life crisis and as such brings considerable stress, pain and anguish to those diagnosed with this condition (Holter et al. 2006). This has been identified through research conducted by Cousineau & Domar (2007) who reported that the emotional needs of service users’ attending clinics for infertility treatment have been neglected and somewhat over looked. The impact of infertility can have a profound effect on individuals and couples. According to Cousineau & Domar, (2007:295) couples can experience “overt ostracism or diverse to more subtle forms of social stigma leading to isolation and mental disorder”. Kaliarnta et al. (2001:282) notes that going through infertility treatments is “mentally and emotionally challenging on women with there being a social stigma making it difficult for women to access support which in turn leaves them feeling alone, tired and frustrated”. According to Ra...

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... them believes and views infertility as a defectiveness and views the infertile person as inadequate and flawed.
The research presented indicates that a diagnosis of infertility can result in a sense of isolation for couples and individuals struggling with infertility. The fear of stigmatisation is ever present particularly in developing countries. Isolation and stigmatisation is exasperated by societal views, values and expectations along with a distant lack of awareness and empathy for those who find themselves in this difficult and taxing situation. Infertility can be a lonely and tiring experience for many individuals and couples. Society’s lack of understanding denies this population the support and comfort they need at a critical and daunting time in their lives. The next part of this thesis will examine the impact that infertility can have on relationships.

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