Infertility and Grief: The Psychological Toll on Women’s Mental Health View PDF

Infertility affects approximately 1 in 6 couples globally and represents a significant reproductive health challenge with profound psychological consequences [1-4]. The relationship between infertility and mental health is complex and bidirectional, with psychological distress both resulting from and potentially contributing to fertility challenges [5-9]. This analysis examines the comprehensive psychological impact of infertility on women’s mental health, drawing from recent research to understand prevalence, mechanisms, risk factors, interventions, and long-term outcomes [10-12]. The psychological toll of infertility on women’s mental health has garnered increasing attention in recent literature, highlighting a complex interplay of emotional distress, grief, and societal pressures (Figure 1) [13-17]. Several studies underscore that infertility is associated with significant psychological challenges, including depression, anxiety, and grief, which can adversely affect women’s overall well-being [18]. Research by de Castro et al. [19] systematically reviews the psychosocial aspects of gestational grief among women undergoing infertility treatment, revealing that women often experience profound negative psychosocial responses, including feelings of loss and mourning related to their inability to conceive. Similarly, Bose et al. [20] explore gender differences in psychological factors among infertile couples, emphasizing that women tend to experience higher levels of fertility-related stress, which impacts their quality of life.

The broader mental health implications of infertility are further supported by Hazlina et al. [18], who highlight an increasing prevalence of mental disorders among women with infertility, suggesting that these issues are often overlooked despite their severity. Longitudinal data from Bagade et al. [21] also demonstrate a steady rise in infertility reports over 18 years, correlating with increased psychological distress among women, emphasizing the persistent and escalating mental health burden. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified these psychological challenges, with studies indicating heightened anxiety, depression, and grief among women facing fertility disruptions. Gordon et al. [22] discussed the psychological impact of fertility treatment suspensions during the pandemic, noting that such disruptions exacerbate feelings of loss and uncertainty. Similarly, Kinser et al. [23] report elevated levels of depression and anxiety among pregnant and postpartum women during the early pandemic phase, reflecting the broader mental health vulnerabilities experienced by women during this period.

Qualitative insights from Diallo et al. [24] provide a nuanced understanding of the psychosocial burden faced by infertile women, emphasizing feelings of social isolation, stigma, and emotional distress rooted in cultural contexts. These findings collectively underscore that infertility-related grief is not only a personal emotional experience but also deeply embedded in social and cultural frameworks, which can intensify psychological suffering. Overall, the literature consistently indicates that infertility is associated with significant psychological distress, including grief, depression, and anxiety, which profoundly impact women’s mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic has further amplified these issues, highlighting the need for targeted psychological support and interventions to address the complex emotional landscape faced by women experiencing infertility [25-27].