As we know, infertility is seen in 10-15% of the society. The problem of infertility affects couples psychologically, socially, and economically. However, the problem of infertility is actually a battle to be won through appropriate treatments and by seeking expert opinions.
After a detailed initial evaluation of the infertility problem and revealing the cause, it is very important for the doctor and the couple to decide on treatment alternatives by discussing them together. This is because, in some couples, it may be necessary to proceed directly to IVF treatment to achieve results immediately. For example, in couples with advanced maternal age and significant familial pressure, it would be more appropriate to switch to IVF treatment immediately; thus, the negative effects of time loss will be prevented. On the other hand, in newly married or very young women, if there is no serious sperm problem, it is possible to progress gradually through treatment methods; such as first ovulation induction, then vaccination (IUI), and finally IVF treatment. However, at this point, environmental factors are important, and the support of the couple for each other is crucial. Because the infertility problem is a joint issue of both the man and the woman.
During infertility treatments, the process can occasionally affect couples negatively and can destroy the relationship or even the institution of marriage. Families can also contribute to this. However, it should be known that infertility treatment is a process and can take time. At this point, it would be correct to convey even the slightest social situation to the physician; thus, it may be possible to speed up the process.
Feelings of inadequacy may develop from time to time in couples trying to cope with infertility problems. Seeing other couples or friends become pregnant can lead to extreme sadness and depression. Social relationships can be damaged by thoughts of why one cannot get pregnant or struggles to get pregnant while others can conceive so naturally.
Couples struggling with the problem of infertility should know that this situation is not actually a serious illness but a battle. One should not lose hope of getting pregnant at any moment, even in the most difficult times. We have seen in many of our patients that spontaneous pregnancies occur when a break of a few months is taken, even though pregnancy did not occur despite consecutive treatments. Or, pregnancies occur within a few months after endoscopic procedures such as laparoscopy and hysteroscopy performed during the preparation phase for IVF treatment. In some of our patients, we have seen that pregnancies can occur even during preparation with an IVF treatment injection we use for the long protocol. In fact, one of my patients came with a 13-year infertility problem and became pregnant in the month we started IVF treatment, even before moving on to the ovulation induction phase. Therefore, sometimes even starting treatments or taking a step can cause some psychological breakthroughs and spontaneous pregnancies can occur.
Knowing the facts during infertility treatments but not losing hope is very important for the marriage relationship and the psychology of the couples. A positive attitude will also positively affect the treatment process. Rather than the positive suggestion of the doctor, it is very beneficial for couples to see the treatment process not as a treatment for a disease but as a battle, a struggle, and to think that they are doing their best for a positive outcome. Even in the darkest moment, one should not lose hope and should think that the miracle might be just around the corner and even happening right now. Not losing hope in infertility treatment, being positive, trusting, continuity, and not giving up the struggle are emotions that have a positive effect and lead the treatment to a positive conclusion.
Of course, while maintaining all these positive thoughts and attitudes, it is important to be with an experienced and reliable infertility specialist in the field. This is because a physician who will manage and direct the correct treatment methods with their experience without wasting time will conclude this process with pregnancy. In cases where the chance of pregnancy is low, it is necessary to give the couple realistic information in this direction. For example, it should be known that the chance of success is low in cases of azoospermia who have had TESE 2-3 times before and no sperm was found, or in couples where the woman’s age is over 45.
As a final word, infertility is not a serious health problem but a struggle. Continuing this process with high morale and an experienced and reliable physician will lead to a happy ending. Being more difficult does not mean it is impossible.
