Cognitive Behavior Therapy in Management of Psychosocial Factors in Female Infertility

By : Megha Choudhary, Susmita Halder

Page No: 53-62

Abstract
Infertility is one of leading cause of distress in couples and can be caused by difficulties in either or both the spouse. However, along with the physical changes individual’s psychosocial parameters are affected as well. Studies have shown denial, anger, depression, anxiety, loss of control, guilt, low self-esteem, marital discord, interpersonal difficulties, and sexual dysfunction occur in association in majority of infertility cases which impact the mental health of individuals more than the primary cause itself. Thus, the aim of this study is to reduce the impact of these associated symptoms and improving overall well-being of individuals. In this study two female cases with infertility and associated symptoms were included and a psychotherapeutic package including therapeutic assessment, CBT, psychoeducation, supportive psychotherapy, assertiveness training and spouse counseling was done over span of 12 sessions. CBT helped in identification of cognitive errors, negative automatic thoughts and faulty core beliefs and techniques like thought challenging, explanation of cognitive triad, along with behavioral experiments and relaxation techniques showed improvement in interpersonal difficulties, self-perception, affective stability, improved marital and sexual intimacy, and higher acceptance of male causes of infertility. Thereby making it essential to incorporate psychological treatment modules for medical conditions such as infertility as well.

Authors :
Megha Choudhary : PhD Scholar – Department of Clinical Psychology, Central Institute of Psychiatry. Ranchi.
Susmita Halder : Associate Professor – Department of Clinical Psychology, Amity University, Kolkata
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JPR.2019.14.01.6