Female Infertility Associated Depression and Anxiety: A Comprehensive Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63278/10.63278/mme.v31.1Keywords:
Infertility, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Mental HealthAbstract
Infertility poses significant psychological challenges, particularly for women, leading to increased levels of anxiety and depression. This study systematically explores the multifaceted emotional toll of infertility, reviewing literature that underscores a staggering prevalence of depressive symptoms among infertile women, which can range from 25% to 60%. Societal expectations regarding motherhood compound these feelings of distress, contributing to a heightened psychological burden as compared to men. Emphasizing the complexity of this relationship, findings suggest that the psychological distress experienced by these women can parallel that of individuals confronting chronic illnesses. Coping mechanisms play a crucial role in influencing mental health outcomes; adaptive strategies such as problem-solving and seeking social support yield more favorable results, whereas maladaptive strategies—like self-blame and avoidance—exacerbate emotional turmoil. The study also highlights the biopsychosocial framework in contextualizing the experiences of infertile women, depicting how biological factors, psychological distress, and social stressors intertwine to affect mental health. Long-duration infertility correlates with an intensification of anxiety and depression, signaling the importance of timely assessment and intervention. Additionally, analysis of the impacts of various fertility treatment options, particularly assisted reproductive technologies (ART), reveals that the physical and emotional challenges associated with these treatments contribute significantly to psychological outcomes. Through this examination, the research calls for integrated mental health support as part of infertility treatment protocols, advocating for tailored interventions that address the unique coping styles of women facing infertility. By recognizing the extensive mental health implications of infertility, stakeholders can better prepare to address these psychological challenges, ultimately promoting improved quality of life and emotional well-being for affected individuals. This study serves as a critical resource for healthcare practitioners and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of psychological considerations in infertility management.
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