Merav Gur, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist


I counsel women, men and couples:
•        Considering fertility treatments
•        Dealing with failed treatments  
•        Considering or using donor sperm/eggs, third party carrier
•        Considering or going through the process of adoption
•        Processing the possibility of living life without children
•        Once pregnant, dealing with issues related to expectations,
       parenthood, multiple gestation.
•        Dealing with post-partum depression
•        Adjustment to parenthood
•        Secondary Infertility
•        Single-mother pregnancy and motherhood

The Psychological Impact of Infertility

anger. These feelings may in turn disrupt partners’ communications and
anger. These feelings may in turn disrupt partners’ communications and
their capacity to cope effectively.  In addition, couples have to make
difficult medical decisions and feel overwhelmed by treatments which
take time, drain financial resources and are experienced as invasive.  
take time, drain financial resources and are experienced as invasive.  


Individuals going through fertility treatments may also feel depressed,
anxious, and isolated and may feel they cannot share their experiences.  
They may experience strained relationship with their partner as well as
levels of stress that may interfere with daily functioning.  In addition,
pregnancy loss will often be experienced as traumatic and may lead to
depression, anger, and hopelessness.  Considering adoption can also
be a difficult decision for many, as can considering the use of a donor
egg/sperm or of a third party carrier.   

The Role of Psychotherapy for Those Dealing with Fertility Issues

Psychotherapy can be of great help to those confronting fertility issues.
Psychotherapy can help such clients cope with complex and difficult
emotions as well as help them manage stress levels and reduce
depressive and anxiety symptoms.  Psychotherapy can also provide
such clients and couples with support as they undergo intrusive and
overwhelming medical treatments.  Psychotherapy can help couples
resolve issues such as anger, blame, and strained relationship, and
help them process options.  For many, therapy can be helpful when they
are at a crossroads, when fertility treatments are not successful, and
when adoption or third party assistance (egg/sperm donation,
surrogacy) may be needed.   

Instead of letting infertility become an obstacle in your life, I believe that
the tremendous challenges presented by fertility issues can serve as
avenues for personal growth, for stronger and healthier relationships,
and for a more meaningful life.   For many, learning how to cope with the
stress and the feelings associated with fertility issues can ultimately
improve clients’ quality of life and help alleviate the pressure to get
pregnant.    
Links:

Resolve: The National Infertility
Association www.resolve.org

The American Society for
Reproductive Medicine www.asrm.org

The American Psychological
Association www.apa.org

The American Fertility Association
www.theafa.org