If you’re facing Infertility, you may know all too well how stressful it can be. With all the tests, fertility charting, timed intercourse, and medical procedures, you and your spouse could stop connecting before you even realize it. But, there are things you can do help your marriage and support each other through infertility.
Support your spouse by taking time to communicate
Each of you must express what you’re experiencing and feeling, through talking and listening. Listen intently by letting your partner finish speaking, then acknowledge that you heard and understand. And if you don’t, ask him or her to expand on the thought. Finally, always use positive words and questions. Avoid the blame game.
See a counselor as you go through infertility
Counseling can become the designated time and safe space to talk things out. Ideally, see a fertility counselor. They are specially trained to guide you on how to communicate and support each other through what can seem like an insurmountable challenge.
Support means staying “in touch” with your spouse
Touching is a vital part of communication — it connects you. And, research shows it can be a powerful form of healing. Touching doesn’t have to lead to sex; rather, it can be hugging, holding each other, holding hands, giving a massage or snuggling in bed.
Keep other dreams alive to support your spouse during infertility
Before getting pregnant took over your life, you both had dreams, hobbies and interests you understandably set aside. This might be a good time to set new goals, come up with new interests and make plans to do them. The idea is to stay busy and not just focus on trying to get pregnant.
Support each other by standing by each other
Sticking together may help your marriage become stronger than ever, whether you become parents or not. One way to do this it to support each other in accepting what you’ve been through before making plans for the next step. If you both have not fully processed and accepted all aspects of this journey, you may not be ready to move forward with other fertility treatments, adoption or even choosing to be child-free.
Expert, dedicated infertility care in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota
At the Center for Reproductive Medicine, excellent care is always accompanied by compassion and personalized attention. We take pride in providing customized treatments, including in vitro fertilization in Minneapolis and St. Paul offices.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 612-863-5390 or click here to complete our quick, convenient new-patient form.
