Any couple going through infertility will be under emotional stress. This is the time the couple should best rely on and be there for each other. Since no one else can feel the infertility-related stress as much, they both do. So, leaning into each other for emotional support is an excellent way of dealing with it. Women, especially, are subjected to more judgement and societal pressure in cases of infertility. The society also automatically attributes childbearing responsibility totally to women, even in cases where there is male factor infertility. If you have started infertility treatment, then there are aspects such as tests, fertility charting, timed intercourse, and medical procedures, which can be overwhelming to follow up. Just as every cloud has a silver lining, this is an opportunity to be there for each other and support your wife while she is undergoing ART or any other treatments.
In this blog, we shall discuss how to support your wife in case of infertility.
Create an environment of sharing: Your wife must feel free to share her concerns with you. Most times, women may not need a solution just by letting out their feelings; they feel light. They want to be heard, so take time to do that. While she is talking, listen intently and let her finish before trying to fix it. Even while giving a solution or while responding, use positive words and do not get into an accusatory tone.
Couples counselling helps: If you feel that there are some issues, a third-party intervention is better. If you have a trusted and mature family member or friend, then it’s fine. If that is not the case, then seek professional counselling. Counselling centres maintain privacy and offer a safe space to talk things out. Find a fertility counsellor. We at ZIVA fertility clinics provide counselling services to couples who are going through infertility.
Comfort your wife: Touching is a powerful form of communication. It does not mean only having sex; instead, it can be hugging, holding each other, holding hands, giving a massage or snuggling in bed.
Revisit your life before infertility: Before you got to know about infertility as a couple, you would have had things that you enjoyed doing. Revisit them and restart them if you have stopped. It could be visiting your favourite restaurant, going to a movie, visiting vacation spots, etc. Make sure your wife is engaged in healthy activities.
Support each other by being with each other: Sticking together helps improve your relationship, and you both become more vital than ever. Both of you should accept the situation before making plans for the next step.
Go with her to meet the fertility specialist: Do not let her go alone to doctor’s appointments or for fertility testing and treatments. Make time for this so that it is a way to show your support and that you are invested.
Observe her moods and check for anxiety or grief: The path to pregnancy contains many hurdles, and many suppress their emotions, then you are doing yourself and your partner a disservice. As a man, you may not get the first instinct to share your feelings, but that won’t be the case for your wife. Sharing your fears makes her feel like she isn’t alone and allows you to support her better.
Focus on listening rather than fixing her: Men might feel the need to solve everything immediately but do not do that, especially when your wife is emotionally charged. Empathise with her by listening, which is an excellent way to show your support.
You can be the biggest supporter for your wife while she is dealing with infertility. We at ZIVA Fertility clinics will take care of your emotional needs also while treating infertility. For more information, please visit our website https://zivafertility.com/ or contact us at +91-9100002737 or +91-9347406900
