Infertility: Impacts on Individual, Couples & Families

Abstract

This manuscript thesis is a review of research conducted on the topic of issues related to the experience of infertility on individuals, couples, and families. It includes a brief background about infertility from a medical perspective, as well as some of the psychological, emotional and social impacts of infertility. The first essay focuses on the transition to parenthood and the issues related to delayed parenthood. The second essay explores the emotional and psychological impacts of infertility on both the female and the male and how these issues can impact the individual, marriage, and other relationships. The third essay explores how couples cope with infertility stress and highlights the role gender and culture both have on coping strategies. This essay will also focus on types of counselling interventions and treatment considerations when working with couples and/or individuals struggling with infertility.