Psychogenic infertility - Nothing but a myth?

A review is given of studies concerning the influence of psychological factors on the development of infertility. A prevalence of psychogenic infertility of 10-15 per cent must be discussed critically. A value of approximately 5 per cent is more realistic. Spontaneous pregnancies following adoption or the decision to remain childless are the absolute exception. The association of stress and infertility in humans is still unclear. For many women the effect of infertility and notably of medical therapy is a considerable emotional stress. This may make psychosocial counseling neccessary in certain cases. Infertility should always be treated as a psychosomatic entirety.