Identifying Relational Growth Trajectories in Couples Following Infertility Treatment
Keywords:
Infertility, Couples, Relational growth, Emotional resilience, Dyadic coping, Thematic analysis, ChileAbstract
Objective: This study aimed to explore and identify the relational growth trajectories experienced by couples in Chile following infertility treatment, focusing on emotional, communicative, and identity-based transformations emerging after treatment completion.
Methods and Materials: This qualitative research employed a phenomenological design to capture couples’ lived experiences of relational change after infertility treatment. The sample consisted of 18 participants (9 couples) recruited purposively from fertility clinics and support networks in Santiago, Valparaíso, and Concepción. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews lasting 60–90 minutes were conducted until theoretical saturation was achieved. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis framework with the support of NVivo 14 software. Credibility was ensured through member checking, peer debriefing, and maintenance of an analytic audit trail.
Findings: Thematic analysis revealed four overarching themes that described couples’ post-treatment experiences: (1) Emotional reconstruction and resilience, encompassing acceptance, emotional regulation, and rediscovery of hope; (2) Transformation of couple communication, marked by open dialogue, empathy, and constructive conflict resolution; (3) Reconfiguration of identity and meaning, reflecting shifts in self-worth, spirituality, and relational purpose; and (4) Relational growth and future orientation, capturing strengthened partnerships, gratitude, and shared visions beyond biological parenthood. Couples reported that infertility, while initially distressing, ultimately fostered deeper intimacy, mutual empathy, and adaptive meaning-making. These relational growth trajectories aligned with prior research emphasizing post-traumatic growth and dyadic coping in infertility contexts.
Conclusion: Infertility, despite its emotional burden, can serve as a catalyst for relational and psychological growth. Couples who engage in mutual support, empathic communication, and meaning reconstruction often emerge from treatment with stronger emotional bonds and renewed partnership. Integrating relational and psychological support within fertility care may enhance couples’ resilience and promote long-term well-being.
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References
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