"Beyond the Diagnosis: Psychological Support for Women Experiencing Infertility – A Holistic Nursing Perspective"

Abstract: Infertility is a global reproductive health concern affecting millions of women and couples, with profound psychological, emotional, and social consequences. While medical advancements have significantly improved infertility diagnosis and treatment, the psychological needs of women experiencing infertility often remain underaddressed. Women frequently encounter emotional distress, anxiety, depression, altered self-esteem, marital strain, and social stigma throughout the infertility journey. Nurses, as primary caregivers and patient advocates, are uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive psychological support that complements medical management. This review article explores infertility from a psychological perspective, emphasizing the critical role of nurses in assessment, emotional support, counseling, patient education, and advocacy. It synthesizes current literature on the psychological impact of infertility, identifies common emotional responses, discusses evidence-based nursing interventions, and highlights the importance of culturally sensitive, patient-centered care. The article also examines challenges faced by nurses and outlines future directions for strengthening psychological support services within infertility care. By adopting a holistic and compassionate approach, nurses can significantly enhance the psychological well-being and quality of life of women experiencing infertility.