Resources for Partners

Changes in Intimacy

Infertility and fertility treatment can significantly alter your sex life.

Sex may become scheduled or feel like a chore, leading to a decrease in spontaneous intimacy and connection. Physical changes from treatments or emotional stress can also affect sexual desire.

Differing Coping Mechanisms

Everyone handles the stress of infertility in different ways.

For example, you may feel more open and want to talk about it, while your partner may become withdrawn or prefer distractions. This can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of isolation.

Financial Strain

Fertility treatment can be quite expensive, causing financial stress.

This can lead to arguments, resentment, and anxiety for both partners, especially if affording care is forcing you to defer other financial goals or make sacrifices that you may not agree on.

Putting Life on "Pause"

The constant focus on infertility can make you and your partner feel like your future together is on hold, waiting for that positive pregnancy test. This can lead to a loss of joy in everyday activities, resentment towards others who are pregnant or have children, and a sense of being "stuck" in this phase of life.

Disagreements About Treatment Options

You and your partner may have differing opinions on which treatment pathways to pursue, how far to go, or when to stop or change direction. This can create tension and conflict in your relationship, especially if one partner feels pressured or unheard.

Difficulty Communicating

Infertility is an emotional rollercoaster. It can be hard to identify and express complex feelings like grief, anger, or guilt. Some even fear that expressing these emotions will burden their partner or make them appear weak. However, bottling things up often results in a sense of isolation.