“Temporal meaning-making of women's emotional experiences during the infertility treatment process: a qualitative study”

PURPOSE: This study examines women's emotional experiences during infertility treatment through the perspective of temporality, focusing on pre-diagnosis meanings, treatment experiences, and future expectations. METHOD: Using a descriptive phenomenological approach, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 19 women undergoing infertility treatment. Data were analyzed using Giorgi's method. RESULTS: Infertility represents a 'biographical disruption' deeply affecting self-perception and social identity. Pre-diagnosis meanings attributed to motherhood deepen the trauma at diagnosis. The treatment process is an 'extended present' oscillating between hope and uncertainty, involving bodily objectification and intense social pressure. CONCLUSION: Infertility is a multi-layered traumatic process. Health professionals should adopt a supportive care approach prioritizing women's temporal integrity and psychosocial well-being alongside medical outcomes.