The self as a resource: A qualitative study of women coping with infertility in north India

Indian Society is pro-natalist, often placing the social burden of infertility on women. This paper aims to bring forth how 30 women seeking infertility treatment at a public hospital in Delhi cope with the condition. Using purposive sampling, in-depth interviews were conducted with the women. Thematic analysis of the interviews revealed seven themes: Infertility and resilience: Hope and determination; Infertility as destiny: Attribution to God and karma; Constructing alternative identities through work; Coping through recreation and spirituality; Rationalising infertility: Self-consolation; Revisiting motherhood: Kinship foster care and adoption and; Marital discord and considerations of divorce. Apart from medical treatment, the healthcare system should provide psychological support to patients diagnosed with infertility. This can be facilitated by peer group interactions where women coping effectively with infertility can share strategies that help them manage their own emotions. The sense of sorority among the women can enhance emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.