The complex relationship between infertility and psychological distress (Review)

Abstract

Infertility is defined as the inability to procreate, or carry or deliver a baby naturally. The majority of specialists describe infertility as being unable to get pregnant after having tried for at least one year. The relationship between infertility and psychological stress is complex. On the one hand, infertile couples are subject to greater stress and have a greater risk of developing psychological disorders compared with normal, healthy couples. On the other hand, high levels of psychological distress have been indicated to increase infertility. Therefore, in the present review, the main factors that may lead to increased stress in couples who try to conceive, psychological stress as the reason for infertility, and the therapies that can help decrease psychological distress and increase chances of pregnancy are underlined. In addition to the psychological side effects that may occur from infertility itself, a range of other side effects can be caused by hormones and drugs used to treat infertility. Additionally, problem during erection and ejaculation can cause of psychological distress, which can lead to infertility among men. Psychotherapy is the main intervention recommended for couples who suffer from any form of infertility. Ideally, counselling should begin before patients start any medical intervention to help with their infertility.

Keywords: anxiety; depression; infertility; pregnancy; psychological distress.