|
Untitled Document
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
| :: Dealing with the Pre Partum Blues :: |
| |
|
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
Leading specialists discuss the natural link between infertility and depression
For countless couples facing the ordeal of infertility, the physical aspects of the condition are only half of the equation. Managing the emotional aspects of infertility is the often overlooked other half. Nearly a decade of research confirms that symptoms of depression often accompany infertility ? for both women and men.
The good news is that this scientific link has led to a new sensitivity to infertility issues that has shown a remarkable level of success in helping couples to overcome the natural feelings of loss and anger associated with a diagnosis of infertility. Mark Leondires, M.D., medical director at Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut in Norwalk, explains, ?These feelings are perfectly normal and understandable. But, just as we have focused our efforts and expertise over the years on the physical aspects of infertility, reproductive medicine specialists must now also help their patients address the emotional aspects of the condition.?
Why do infertile couples often suffer from depression and anxiety?
According to Lisa Tuttle, Ph.D., a Norwalk-based psychologist who specializes in fertility counseling, there is ample reason for couples that face infertility to suffer emotionally. ?It is well established that the physical rigors of medical treatment for any condition can cause feelings of depression and anxiety,? Dr. Tuttle says. ?However, when we add to it the stress of feeling inadequate, blaming oneself, loss of sexual identity, and the loss of control that come with a diagnosis of infertility, the risks go higher.?
Dr. Tuttle also notes that with each month of failed treatments, depressive symptoms can worsen. ?Often, as treatment options progress and change, couples may begin to drift apart in their vision of how to manage their care?and their futures,? she says. ?This can put stress on the relationship itself, which adds another layer to the emotional challenges of infertility.?
What are some of the signs of infertility-related depression and anxiety?
1. Feeling hopeless about the future, and unable to believe that you will ever be happy again.
2. Losing interest in the career, relationships and/or hobbies that you once enjoyed.
3. Socially withdrawing from friends, family and colleagues (especially those who have children).
4. Preoccupation with fertility to the exclusion of other aspects of your life, and feeling unable to stop thinking about it.
5. Feelings of worthlessness stemming from the idea that you have no purpose if you cannot be a parent.
What are the treatment options and benefits?
Dr. Tuttle encourages couples to seek evaluation and treatment when they recognize that one or both partners are suffering from depression and/or anxiety. Treatment can come in the form of individual therapy, marital therapy, support groups, mind-body therapies, and, in some more severe cases, psychiatric medication.
The mind-body therapies are a good idea for every patient, and can help prevent the depression and anxiety from arising if used from the onset. ?The addition of a mind-body component to traditional infertility treatment can help patients succeed in achieving a healthy, viable pregnancy more quickly, and can provide a positive outlet for their concerns and fears during the process.? Indeed, in a study published in the American Journal of Medical Women?s Association, 60% of women whose depression had been treated became pregnant within six months, as opposed to only 24% of those women with untreated depression.
Dr. Tuttle recommends the following steps:
1. Take steps to foster positive and nurturing experiences in your life, to counteract the inherent stress of the fertility process ? There are numerous relaxation techniques and options available, from yoga, journaling and meditation to planning a vacation, and from taking up a new sport to taking in a new pet. ?The important thing here is to find ways to expel the negativity and replace it with feelings of hope and enthusiasm,? Dr. Tuttle says.
2. Reestablish Your Couple Relationship ? ?For many couples, intimacy becomes about achieving pregnancy, which can result in a loss of the feelings of love and caring associated with your commitment to each other,? Dr. Tuttle warns. She advises couples to pay ?reasonable attention? to their goal of becoming pregnant, ?but to also pay just as much, if not more, attention to your relationship, in and out of the bedroom. Renew your enjoyment of fun, romantic pursuits, and reopen the lines of communication about other aspects of your relationship, your goals and your future.?
3. Find a Support Group ? ?This is so important for so many reasons,? Dr. Tuttle says. ?Infertility is a difficult issue to discuss with others because it?s impossible to empathize unless you?ve been there. In a support group, individuals can share feelings they may not be comfortable revealing to anyone else, and receive validation that, indeed, these emotions are completely normal, and that they are not alone in experiencing them.? One caveat: it is best to choose one that is facilitated by a skilled professional who specializes in infertility counseling. At The Center, Dr. Leondires and his colleagues have established several support groups that meet regularly under the supervision of Dr. Tuttle.
|
Source/Author Info:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HealthNewsDigest.com |
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
