Couples who are undergoing infertility treatment could benefit from talk therapy, researchers have said.
Many women suffer from stress-related infertility, particularly during the winter months.
Dr Deidra Rausch, a counsellor in the US who specialises in infertility, explained: "For them, the end of the year becomes another marker in their inability to have children.
"Plus, the seasonal emphasis on family can become a painful reminder of their ongoing struggles."
Dr Rausch cited new research presented at a fertility conference in Prague that found evidence of the benefits of talk therapy.
The study, conducted by scientists at Emory University, found that of eight women who participated in a cognitive behaviour therapy course, six regained full fertility and two became pregnant within two months.
The expert concluded that a mental health professional could help couples undergoing infertility treatment by alleviating feelings of depression and anxiety and boosting self-esteem.
Many women suffer from stress-related infertility, particularly during the winter months.
Dr Deidra Rausch, a counsellor in the US who specialises in infertility, explained: "For them, the end of the year becomes another marker in their inability to have children.
"Plus, the seasonal emphasis on family can become a painful reminder of their ongoing struggles."
Dr Rausch cited new research presented at a fertility conference in Prague that found evidence of the benefits of talk therapy.
The study, conducted by scientists at Emory University, found that of eight women who participated in a cognitive behaviour therapy course, six regained full fertility and two became pregnant within two months.
The expert concluded that a mental health professional could help couples undergoing infertility treatment by alleviating feelings of depression and anxiety and boosting self-esteem.