Coping with infertility in couples: Gender differences

Despite the fact that the incidence of infertility is increasing, health care professionals know very little about gender differences in responses to infertility. This study was designed to (1) explore gender difference in the problems of infertile women and men, (2) compare and contrast how women and men cope with the problems, and (3) explore gender differences in personal and social resources available for coping with infertility. Sixty‐six individuals, 39 females and 27 males, responded to a self‐administered questionnaire. Results of this study confirmed that women and men experience infertility differently. Women had significantly more problems in the areas of self‐esteem, personal life, health care systems, and occupation. There were no gender differences in social support ratings or in access to a confidant. Both women and men used a similar number of problem‐focused coping strategies. Women, however, also employed significantly more emotion‐focused coping strategies than did men. Results of this study suggest directions for nurses and others providing support and counseling for infertile couples.