Lived Experiences of Woman in Relation to Infertility – A Review of the Qualitative Research

Abstract

In this article, we have analyzed the experiences of women with infertility. We were interested in what we can learn about their feelings, thoughts and problems by analyzing the results obtained in qualitative research. We analyzed 10 qualitative studies dealing with infertile women. Using the thematic analysis, we identified seven core themes: Motherhood, Stories of Infertility, All Colors of Feelings, Changes in Identity, Complexity of Partnership, Social Environment (Social Support), Coping Strategies. Each selected core theme includes a number of subthemes. The article explains in detail each selected theme, and their justification is supported by appropriate quotations.

Phenomenological Study of the Experience of Infertility in Romanian Patients: The Female Perspective

“…Expressed or repressed feelings color the whole existence of the couple or the person who has infertility, and, often, it is defined as a rollercoaster. The concept of a rollercoaster (Janković & Todorović, 2021) is one of the most frequently used accounts related to the experience of infertility. The term best describes the emotional extremes experienced by patients or couples, with a significant impact on general well-being, social integration or even treatment adherence and, last but not least, on therapeutic success (Alamin et al 2020).…”

Lived experience of infertility and in vitro fertilisation treatment

“…Many women report feeling isolated and alone in their grief. 13 Although women are more likely than men to experience psychological distress, and at greater levels, it is important that the male experience is acknowledged. Women tend to seek out and receive more social support than men, and a lack of social support can heighten the levels of distress experienced by men.…”

Identifying Women With Psychological Problems During the in Vitro Fertilization Process: The Psychological Evaluation Test (Pet)

“…Although most women cope well with unsuccessful treatment, some women suffer from anxiety and/or depression six months later (Verhaak et al 2005;Verhaak et al 2007). Both partners feel sorrow and anger, and women often report shame, self-blame, a sense of failure, and lack of fulfillment (Batool & de Visser 2015;Benyamini et al 2009;Cunha et al 2016;Gazit & Amichai-Hamburger 2020;Janković & Todorović 2021;Hanna & Gough 2015;Woods et al 1991). The highest distress is present in women with a perception of little control over the situation in which they find themselves (Benyamini et al 2009).…”