An introduction to infertility counseling: a guide for mental health and medical professionals

Abstract

The practice of infertility counseling delivered by mental health and medical professionals has become more sophisticated and widespread over the past decade. This paper summarizes information presented at the second campus workshop of the Special Interest Group of Psychology and Counseling of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE). This group is dedicated to improving infertility services by creating meaningful connections between mental health and medical professionals. The paper identifies key issues that infertility counselors must consider in their work with couples experiencing infertility. The use of supportive psychosocial interventions and treatments are highlighted. The paper also details the process for choosing the most appropriate type of infertility counseling, and the use of assessment tools that assist in understanding infertility related symptoms. Infertility counselors should also consider gender differences, the impact of infertility on a couple's sexual relationship,and the unique challenges couples face regarding third-party conception. Finally, the paper addresses specific recommendations for infertility counselors in mental health and medical settings.

Gender differences in preferences for psychological treatment, coping strategies, and triggers to help‐seeking

“…For example, Peterson et al . (, p.3) suggest that ‘It is essential that infertility counselors be aware of how men and women experience infertility differently’. They describe, for example, the ‘common dynamic’ where a man attempts to help his female partner using problem‐solving strategies to protect her from her emotional pain, leaving the woman feeling emotionally invalidated.…”

Success of In Vitro Fertilization: A Researched Science or a Performance Indicator

“…In addition, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) has stressed on an essential two-dimensional approach, both mental and medical health collaborative counseling, as many people with fertility problems desire psychosocial help as well [24]. An infertility counselor will advise both partners to quit smoking or alcohol consumption, limit the intake of caffeinated beverages, adhere to a healthy well-balanced diet, perform non-aggressive exercise and avoid hot tubs or saunas.…”

Infertility and mental health

“…Current recommendations suggest that staff should try to adopt a patientcentred approach to infertility counselling, providing sufficient information about the pros and cons of medical treatments to enable patients to make an informed decision (Peterson 2012). The Institute of Medicine in the USA has defined patientcentred healthcare delivery as that which 'provides care that is respectful of and responsive to individual patient preferences, needs and values and ensures that patient values guide all clinical decisions' (Institute of Medicine 2001).…”

“…Nearly all studies report that women experience greater amounts of infertilityrelated stress than men (Greil 2010 (Peterson 2012) general have a more positive attitude to seeking psychological help and therapy. In a 12month followup study, Domar and colleagues compared pregnancy rates of women undergoing assisted reproduction who were randomly allocated to a group cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) designed to decrease depression and anxiety, to a support group, or to routine care.…”