The feelings around whether or not to have a child run very deeply and are often complex, tied in not only with our own formative experiences but also with our partner and our life situation. For some, these decisions are straight forward but for many there are complex circumstances and sometimes conflicts that need to be navigated. Sometimes, both members of a couple have differing wishes for the future, which can be an issue for heterosexual or same-sex partnerships. Sometimes there are considerations about whether to become a lone-parent or the timing of when to start or expand a family can be problematic. Often in these circumstances the impact on the emotional life of the individuals involved is deeply significant. Many couples also have to contend with the physical and emotional challenges that come with fertility problems, an area that can put significant strain upon the couple as individuals as well as their relationship. The demands of physical treatment can be extremely difficult, this alongside the myriad of complex emotions that have to be navigated. For some, these include feelings of loss and disappointment, anger, frustration, helplessness, guilt and humiliation and the impact of stress upon sexual life, identity and self-esteem. Psychotherapy can be a tremendous means of support, giving you the space to reflect upon your thoughts and feelings and enabling a sense of relief from your distress as you are able to unravel some of the complexities of your experience.
