What are the side effects of infertility treatments?

When conception doesn’t happen as quickly as you would like, things can get pretty stressful, pretty fast. And if you’ve been trying to conceive for a year or more, you’ll find yourself dealing with even more obstacles to a healthy sex life. Not only has the pressure to get pregnant skyrocketed, but the fertility treatments you pursue can add a new wrinkle to an already difficult situation.  Side effects like mood swings, bloating, and headaches can make women feel anything but in the mood.

Research shows that women who undergo treatment for infertility report being less satisfied with their sex lives, have sex less often, and feel less sexual desire that those with normal fertility. Other studies suggest that coping with infertility and its treatments can have negative effects on a couple’s emotional well-being and can create relationship tension.

Talk with your physician about how to cope with specific side effects of fertility treatments. If you find infertility is having an even larger impact on your relationship, consult a sex counselor or therapist to help guide you through the rough patches.