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Read the articleThe psychological journey through assisted reproductive technology: what really helps
Stress does not cause infertility. However, infertility itself causes considerable stress — and that is what needs to be addressed.
Let’s start by dispelling the most damaging myth: ‘Just relax, it’ll happen’. Studies investigating a link between stress and IVF failure have found no clinically significant effect. No one has ever failed an embryo transfer because they were too tense. However, the levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms measured in patients undergoing treatment are comparable to those seen in people with serious chronic illnesses. That is what needs to be taken seriously.
What weighs most heavily on patients, according to their own accounts
- Uncertainty and a loss of control: a timetable dictated by cycles, dates that keep changing, no guarantees at any stage.
- Time divided into periods of waiting: waiting for results, waiting for the transfer, waiting twelve days. This last period of waiting comes up in almost every conversation.
- Isolation: not being able to talk about it at work, hearing about pregnancies announced by those around you, avoiding certain family gatherings.
- Imbalance within the couple: the woman undergoing the injections, scans and waiting does not have the same experience as her partner, and this gap leads to misunderstandings.
- Repeated grief: every failed cycle is a loss, even without a pregnancy. It is not recognised by anyone on the outside.
When to seek help
You don’t have to be feeling unwell to seek help; in fact, it’s even better to do so before things get that far. Warning signs to look out for: persistent sleep problems, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, constant irritability, a feeling that life has been on hold for months, repeated arguments with your partner about the issue, or the feeling that you can no longer make any decisions. Deep sadness lasting more than two weeks, or dark thoughts, warrant a prompt consultation with a doctor.
What has been shown to be effective
Structured psychological interventions — cognitive behavioural therapy, facilitated support groups, mindfulness-based programmes — reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms in patients undergoing treatment. This is their proven benefit, and it is sufficient in itself. The effect on pregnancy rates, however, remains a matter of debate and should not be used as a selling point.
Other things that help, without being a form of therapy: talking to other people going through the same experience, via a patients’ organisation; setting clear boundaries with those around you about what you do and do not wish to share; and deciding in advance, with your partner, what you will do in the event of failure, rather than improvising at the most difficult moment. The article on the number of attempts addresses this issue.
In France, where to find help
Almost all assisted reproductive technology (ART) clinics have a psychologist on staff, whose consultations are free of charge and often under-utilised: the fact that you are receiving treatment abroad does not prevent you from seeking support from a psychologist in France. Consultations with a private psychologist may be partially covered by the public psychological support scheme (upon referral) and by many private health insurance schemes. Patient organisations — such as Collectif BAMP, Association Maia and others — offer support groups and helplines.
For couples
Two simple, practical tips. Firstly, set aside time when the subject is off-limits: one evening a week without talking about assisted reproduction, logistics or results. It may seem artificial, but it works. Secondly, accept that you move at different paces: one of you may want to keep going, whilst the other needs a breather. Disagreement isn’t a lack of love; it’s a difference in pace, and talking it through prevents it from turning into recriminations.
And for single women
The journey is the same, but more solitary, with no one to go through the process with you. Before you start, identify one or two trusted people to whom you can confide everything, and a professional. This isn’t an admission of weakness; it’s the same logic as putting together a complete medical file before setting off on a journey. The article dedicated to the journey of women on their own covers the other aspects.
Frequently asked questions
Can stress cause an IVF treatment to fail?
No. Studies have not shown any clinically significant effect of stress on outcomes. However, infertility causes a level of anxiety comparable to that of serious chronic illnesses, and it is this that needs to be managed.
When should you see a psychologist?
If you experience persistent sleep disturbances, a loss of interest, constant irritability, repeated conflicts within the relationship, or deep sadness lasting more than two weeks. You don’t have to be feeling particularly unwell to benefit from seeing a psychologist.
Which approaches are effective?
Cognitive-behavioural therapies, facilitated support groups and mindfulness programmes reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms. Their effect on pregnancy rates remains a matter of debate.
Can you seek counselling in France if you are receiving treatment abroad?
Yes. Psychologists at French assisted reproductive technology (ART) clinics, private practising psychologists and patient organisations remain accessible regardless of where treatment is taking place.
Sources
- Boivin J. et al., BMJ, 2011 — emotional distress and outcomes of fertility treatments, meta-analysis.
- ESHRE — Routine psychosocial care in infertility and medically assisted reproduction, good practice guide.
- Frederiksen Y. et al., BMJ Open, 2015 — psychosocial interventions in infertility, meta-analysis.
This article provides general practical and administrative information. It does not constitute medical or legal advice. Rules and costs are subject to change: always check for the latest information with your health insurance provider, the clinic treating you and your doctor.
Source: https://fertilitegrece.com/en/blog/psychological-support-fertility/ — Triada Baloukoudis, IVF patient coordination in Greece. General information, not medical or legal advice. Printed on
Triada Baloukoudis
Independent IVF patient coordinator in Thessaloniki, with 24 years of experience supporting patients travelling from abroad. More · Contact · Facebook
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