(PS6-A3) Critical Examination of Research in Women Experiencing Infertility Stigma

Current literature highlights the significant impact that infertility has on the lives of many women. Specifically, studies found correlations between infertility and psychological and emotional impacts, including depression, stress, resentment, and exhaustion. Though there are many studies on the impact of infertility, little research addresses the impact of infertility stigma. Similarly, there are gaps in the research on effectively coping with infertility stigma. The purpose of the current study was to identify the impact of infertility stigma on women, elucidate implications regarding clinical care for this population, and inform recommendations for further research. A literature search was conducted with PsycINFO, and PubMed, using keywords of “infertility,” “women/woman/female,” and “stigma,” yielding a total of 14 articles relevant for full review with three articles using a United States sample. Much of the literature pointed towards stigma as a significant contributor to women’s distress surrounding infertility, particularly in the realms of internalized stigma, public stigma, and anticipatory stigma. Research related to internalized stigma found that many women reported feeling empty, incomplete, broken, or like a failure due to their infertility status. Some women reported experiencing self-blame, negative self-evaluations, and comparison to other women. Additionally, women indicated feeling unworthy of having a child or deserving of their infertility. Studies also found that women experiencing infertility may face stigma or abuse within the family unit, often leading to negative perceptions of social support and social isolation. Women also reported facing stigma related to societal and social pressures to bear children, such as being forced to confront intrusive questions demanding explanations regarding their parental status. Research has shown that seeking infertility treatment is often stigmatized. Other women experienced anticipatory stigma and associated stress surrounding disclosing infertility status. Studies found that some women used spirituality as a coping mechanism for the impact of infertility. However, there was a dearth of literature regarding any other means of coping with stigma. It is paramount that mental health and medical providers are aware of and sensitive to infertility stigma and related detrimental effects. One study found that the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy alleviated issues related to infertility stigma. A qualitative study on 23 women concluded that classifying infertility as a disability could legitimize the condition, lessen the stigma, and make resources and help more available. Recommendations for further research include tracking changes in distress after receiving medical and psychological treatment and determining the potential stigma impacts of classifying infertility as a disability.