We want to help patients maximize their coping skills during this stressful time, and for this reason have included a session with our counselor in the initial evaluation. This session offers couples assistance with decision making and an opportunity to explore their feelings.
Many people see it as renewed hope for conception as well as their last resort.
While ART have helped many couples overcome their infertility, they are not the answer for everyone. For those who choose these techniques, the process can be emotionally, physically and financially draining, and carries with it a tremendous amount of anxiety. The stress of decision-making may grow as couples are faced with an increasing number of choices such as using an anonymous or known donor, whether to choose specific characteristics in a donor, whether to cryopreserve , how many cycles to attempt, and what to do if treatment is not successful. Our psychologist will always be available for consultation. Support groups often form among patients undergoing treatment at the Women's Institute at the same time, and they can be a source of great comfort.