Loss and Infertility
The stresses associated with infertility may feel overwhelming. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected sex. One in six couples in Canada face fertility problems.
In Canada, infertility is considered a perinatal loss. Some common emotions include:
- a sense of inadequacy and worthlessness;
- loss and grief over and over;
- loneliness and isolation;
- impact on relationships – some positive, some negative;
- less sexual pleasure and decrease in sexual activity due to the infertility journey;
- a lack of psychological support; and
- a lack of compassion and caring from health care providers.
In addition to these emotions are the financial effects and the recurring memories of the physical and psychological pain of fertility treatments.
Grief that comes after loss is very individual. The expression and intensity of grief that comes with infertility is unique as well. Finding support may help.
- Friends and family may help by providing practical support and companionship.
- Professional counsellors may help you understand your infertility and the emotions you are dealing with.
- Your primary health-care provider may be a source of support.
- Spiritual groups may provide fellowship, comfort and connection to others.
- Support groups (online groups, forums, in-person groups) may provide connections to others who have had similar experiences.
Experiencing the grief that comes through loss is part of the healing process. Your journey through loss to healing is important.
Services related to this information:
- Contact your Public Health Nurse for immunizations and other prenatal support.
- Mental health and addictions services
- Berevement Services, Eastern Zone, NL Health Services
- 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555
- 811 is free and confidential. 811 is available 24/7 and can provide support with mental health and addictions issues and more.
- Services formerly offered by the Provincial Mental Health Crisis Line are now offered by 811. Call 811 to speak with a registered nurse who is also a trained crisis intervener.
- Bridge the gapp
Newfoundland and Labrador’s ‘go-to’ website for mental health information. Bridge the gapp offers self-help resources, links to local services, and invites people to share their personal stories. Bridge the gapp is free of cost and available to every resident in the province. The site is divided into adult and youth sections, however many services are appropriate for both.