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Significant interpersonal relationship issues experienced during infertility and fertility treatment journeys: a
Emma M Marshall1, Pamela D Pilkington1,2, Gery C Karantzas1
1School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology
|March 8, 2026
Summary
Infertility and fertility treatments significantly impact relationships across social networks. Addressing key issues like social isolation and intimacy problems is crucial for overall well-being.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Infertility and fertility treatments present significant challenges impacting individuals and couples.
- Interpersonal relationships are often strained during this sensitive period.
- Understanding these relationship dynamics is vital for comprehensive patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To achieve expert consensus on the most significant interpersonal relationship issues during infertility and fertility treatment.
- To identify and prioritize relationship challenges faced by individuals undergoing fertility interventions.
Main Methods:
- A panel of experts, including researchers, health professionals, and individuals with lived experience, participated in three online surveys.
- Initial survey involved 90 participants identifying key relationship issues (N=90).
- Subsequent surveys involved expert consensus-building through rating the significance of 82 identified relationship issues.
Main Results:
- Eleven significant relationship issues were identified, categorized into social connections, romantic relationships, friendships, and self-perception.
- Key issues include social isolation, lack of understanding from others, impact of infertility stress on relationships, sexual satisfaction, and intimacy.
- Challenges also encompass navigating friendships with peers experiencing pregnancy/parenting and negative self-thoughts.
Conclusions:
- Infertility and fertility treatments affect relationships across an individual's entire social network.
- Healthcare professionals and researchers should prioritize understanding and addressing these identified significant relationship issues.
- Improving support for relationship challenges can enhance health outcomes for those undergoing fertility treatments.
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