Infertility isn’t just a medical condition—it’s a mental health crisis

Infertility affects men and women in roughly equal numbers.

But too often, the emotional weight lands disproportionately on women.

For decades, infertility has been treated as a medical problem to solve—involving a myriad of labs, tests, and procedures—while the mental health toll has been under-recognized and under-supported.

One large European patient survey found that 80% of respondents said they needed emotional support during fertility treatment, but only 20% said their clinic offered it.

That gap is huge.

Because many women carry infertility like a private burden. They show up to work, to family gatherings, to baby showers, while quietly breaking inside.

Regardless of the study, the pattern is clear: infertility is associated with significantly higher depression, anxiety, and a meaningful reduction in quality of life compared with the general population.

We must not underestimate the mental health crisis surrounding infertility.

Research suggests the intensity of infertility-related distress and depressive symptoms can be comparable to what we see with other serious medical diagnoses, including cancer. 

And one 2023 study using a standardized clinical interview tool reported that infertility patients were up to 25% more likely to have suicidal thoughts compared to other patients. 

It’s a sobering reminder that infertility doesn’t just cause “stress.” It can turn into life-threatening despair.

That’s why the work of professionals like Ivy Margulies, Psy.D. matters so deeply.

Dr. Ivy is a clinical psychologist who specializes in the grief, pain, and trauma that often surface during a woman’s infertility journey. 

In her practice, she makes space for women to feel heard and supported so they can move towards healing.

I’m honored to have Dr. Ivy joining our expert panel, “Unwrapping New Possibilities for Motherhood,” next Monday, January 26, 2026 at 12pm Eastern.

Register here: https://lnkd.in/em2iypBk

If you’re experiencing the pain of infertility right now, please hear this:

You aren’t weak. There is hope. You don’t have to carry this weight alone.

Suicide prevention note: If you’re having thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness, please reach out for help. In the U.S., call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). Outside the U.S., please contact your country's emergency number or a crisis hotline.

#infertilitymentalhealth
#suicideprevention
#cherischoice