Surprise
|
Shock and surprise are common reactions in the first stages of diagnosis,
particularly if a couple has gone to great lengths to prevent pregnancy by using
contraception.
|
Disbelief/denial
|
The thought that 'this cannot happen to me' or there must be some mistake.
|
Anger
|
When a couple gives control over their bodies to a clinician, the frustration and
helplessness felt often turns to anger. Anger can also be expressed towards
the partner, or towards other people who have unplanned pregnancies.
|
Isolation
|
Isolation can manifest itself in two ways, either through thinking they are the
only ones they know who are infertile, or by hiding their infertility from others.
|
Guilt
|
Guilt is often assumed once infertility is diagnosed. If the partners used
contraceptives, if they had previous sexual relationships, if they enjoy sex, if
the woman had an abortion previously, or if a sexually transmitted disease was
contracted- any of these factors may induce feelings of guilt.
|
Grief
|
Once all hope for a pregnancy is abandoned, a necessary response is grieving,
very much like someone has died.
|
Resolution
|
During this last stage, all or most previous emotions have been experienced
and overcome. At this stage, a couple can live with the infertility although it
will never be forgotten, or they may take some action.
|
