Infertility refers to the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after 12 months of regular and unprotected sexual intercourse. Both men and women can be affected by infertility, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as hormonal imbalances, structural problems, age, lifestyle factors, or genetics.
Infertility can be primary, which means that a couple has never been able to conceive, or secondary, which means that they have had a previous pregnancy but are now struggling to conceive again. Infertility, no matter primary or secondary, can be a challenging and emotionally distressing experience.
There are several treatment options available, including medications, surgery, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), and lifestyle modifications. It’s important to seek medical advice and guidance from a fertility specialist or healthcare provider for those experiencing difficulty conceiving.
Infertility can have a significant impact on mental health and emotional well-being, affecting both individuals and couples who are trying to conceive. The stress and anxiety associated with infertility can lead to depression, feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem, as well as social isolation and strain on relationships.
Coping with infertility can be particularly challenging, as it often involves complex medical procedures, uncertainty about the future, and financial strain. The emotional toll of infertility can also be amplified by the social and cultural stigma associated with infertility.
It’s important for individuals and couples struggling with infertility to seek emotional support and care from mental health professionals, support groups, or trusted friends and family members.
The Psychotherapy and Training Collective of New York (PTCNY) is an alliance of mental health professionals licensed for independent private practice in New York and other states.
We are also a psychotherapy resource for our readers in providing workshops and articles on various topics pertinent to our field.
Finding a therapist should not be a challenge. PTCNY provides many convenient ways to find a therapist, including searching by Name/Specialty, Areas of Specialization and Geographic Area.
Find a PTCNY Therapist to help with infertility
PTCNY offers a broad range of therapists with many specialties. Below is a curated list of PTCNY therapists who specialize in helping individuals facing infertility challenges.