Abstract

PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACHES IN INFERTILITY: ENHANCING MENTAL HEALTH AND FERTILITY OUTCOMES

Dr. Vidhi Thakral*, Dr. Pushpa Godara and Dr. Bhushan Kumar Chougule

ABSTRACT

Infertility and various gynecological disorders have noteworthy psychological implications that play an important role in mental health and quality of life. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, and (infertility) — conditions that impact parts of identity, core sexuality, or family-building aspirations often result in accompanying emotional distress. For many women, especially those from cultures with stricter norms about wanting to have children, infertility may bring even more social pressure and personal stress. It makes for a lonely experience filled with shame, stress, and sometimes even sadness. To help cope with these challenges, psychological interventions have become a major source of support. Integrating aspects such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and supportive counseling enables patients to process their emotions, enhance their resilience, and develop healthy coping strategies, promoting an integrated model of mind and bodyintegration. In addition, infertility treatments can be very costly, adding emotional pain and limiting access when costs are high and coverage is scant. Ayurvedic treatments, focused on relaxation and rectification of hormones, PMS and treatment of infertility through natural drugs like Drakshadi Kashaya, Guduchi Kwatha, Panchakarma etc. are also part of holistic management of infertility. To lessen anxiety and bring in clarity of thought, techniques such as Shirodhara and Thailadhara can be effective, together they aid in the general reproductive system. The combination of psychological care with financial guidance and holistic medical treatments provide a thorough method that aims to balance the intricate interaction of mental, emotional as well as bodily facets associated with infertility as well as other gynecological disorders. Such a complementary approach may improve the quality of life and create resilience pathways among individuals affected by these difficult health conditions.

Keywords: Infertility, Psychological Impact, Gynecological Conditions, Holistic Management, Ayurvedic Therapies, Resilience.