Explaining the Phenomenon of Therapeutic Deadlock in Infertile Women: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study

TL;DR

This study explores how infertile women in Iran experience and cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of infertility treatment deadlocks.

Contribution

The study introduces the concept of 'therapeutic deadlock' and explores its emotional and cultural dimensions in infertile women.

Findings

Women felt in a last desperate struggle, exploring unconventional treatments and taking risks.

Negative thoughts like separation and suicidal ideation emerged as coping mechanisms.

Faith in God and resistance to surrendering to fate were key strategies to overcome deadlock.

Abstract

Background and Objective: Infertility is an unpredictable condition that presents various physical, psychological, and financial challenges. The uncertainty surrounding the success of treatment options can hinder individuals' ability to cope, potentially leading to adverse outcomes. This study aimed to explore the phenomenon of therapeutic deadlock in women experiencing infertility.

Method: This descriptive phenomenological study was conducted from March to November 2024 at infertility centers affiliated with Hamadan University of Medical Sciences in Iran. A purposive sample was used, and 23 semistructured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted with women who had experienced primary infertility. The collected data were analyzed using the Colaizzi method.

Findings: In exploring experiences of infertility, three main themes emerged. (1) Feelings that they were in a last desperate struggle: This theme includes exploring unconventional infertility treatments, seeking treatment with skepticism, and taking risks to achieve the goal. (2) Negative thoughts to overcome a deadlock: This encompasses thoughts of separation and suicidal thoughts. (3) Intentions to resist surrendering to fate: This theme highlights resistance through faith in god against feelings of surrendering to fate.

Conclusion: This study examines the phenomenon of therapeutic deadlock among infertile women, highlighting how their cultural and social contexts shape their treatment choices. Despite facing hesitations and potential risks, these women seek treatment in various ways. When confronted with a deadlock in their journey, they often experience negative thoughts and employ different coping strategies, which range from resistance to faith in a higher power and sometimes surrendering to fate.