January 26
Navigating the Emotional Storm of Infertility
By Denise Humphrey, Ph.D., www.DeniseHumphrey.com
Infertility affects more than a woman and man’s reproductive organs. Infertility can cause individuals to experience feelings of guilt, powerlessness, shame, negative self-worth, grief and a host of other emotions. Couples who have experienced multiple miscarriages must also navigate the roller coaster of emotions associated with this loss. These emotions can be very damaging to a relationship as well as to one’s own emotional and mental wellness.
Infertility also brings with it an array of “choice-points” most couples never dreamed to discuss prior to marriage. The lengths to which each individual is prepared to go is often different. The financial commitment each individual is willing to make can also vary vastly. The willingness to adopt in lieu of conception may not be shared by both partners in a relationship. All these choice-points have consequences that must be navigated individually and as a couple.
Sexual intimacy is essential to the health of a relationship. And yet, with so much at stake, it is no wonder that infertility can be devastating to a couples sex life. Discussions surrounding the exploration of infertility options, making crucial financial decisions, understanding the emotional pros and cons to adoption, and honestly engaging in dialogue regarding deep intimate feelings should all be explored in partnership with a professional therapist.
A therapist can assist in helping both individuals feel more positive about fertility problems while helping to strengthen the intimate relationship. Therapy is also a powerful tool for keeping honest lines of communication open between two people.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Humphrey today! 972-239-2490
CREDENTIALS
- Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology: Fielding Graduate University
- Master of Music in Piano Performance: University of Notre Dame
- Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance: Southern Methodist University
- License No. and State: 32345 Texas
- Board of Trustees, Dallas Foundation for Psychoanalysis
- Chair, Arts Committee for the Dallas Society for Psychoanalytic Psychology
- Member, National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology
