Counseling
At the Southwest Fertility Center for Men, Dr. Kuang recognizes that the challenge of male infertility can be emotionally, physically and spiritually draining. In hopes of optimizing their reproductive potential, infertile men may be subjected to many trials and tribulations: a transrectal ultrasound to assess the prostate and seminal vesicles, collecting a semen sample in a sterile clinic room with fluorescent lights, being asked to produce sperm on demand because she is ovulating, getting your scrotum manhandled and your testicles measured with metal calipers, being asked very personal questions about your sexual prowess, having your manhood and maleness called into question, being uncertain about how much to tell your friends & family about what’s going on, wondering what people will think of you if they knew and the list goes on. It is not an easy process.
You are not alone!
TV shows such as “Brothers & Sisters” and “Desperate Housewives” have shown us that infertility is not uncommon in our society. New York City even debuted in 2004 a musical titled “Infertility: A Musical Hard to Conceive.” It was inspired by the composer and lyricist who had a six-year journey towards building a healthy family with twins. The bottom line is that you are not alone. More people than you think are going through or have gone through what is happening to you.
One in four infertile men may suffer from depression!
In 2006, preliminary studies have begun to shed light on the degree to which infertility affects men. Recent work out of Chicago found that 25% of men undergoing an evaluation for male factor infertility showed signs of depression (Russell et al. AUA Abstracts 175(4 Suppl): 524, 2006). Dr. Kuang acknowledges that this may be an issue for you and is more than happy to talk to you more about it as well as listen to your concerns.
There are specialists who can help you!
Dr. Kuang has teamed up with a counselor who specializes in helping men and women work through emotional questions and concerns about you, your partner or your relationship. Do not hesitate to ask Dr. Kuang if you would like to look into some counseling. It may be something that can really help you and your partner through this challenging time in your life.
Local Fertility Counselors for Individuals and Couples:
- Stefanie Luna, LMFT & Kristin Wallin, LMFT, Wallin & Luna Counseling Associates, (505) 821-5894, www.wallin-luna.com