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Struggling with Infertility by Dr. Sharon Schönteich is an attempt to shed a beam of light onto the struggles of those who experience infertility and the consequences of these struggles. Having a baby and becoming a parent are major developmental milestones in adulthood that most people aspire to achieve. It is typically expected pregnancy should happen naturally and seamlessly.  However, when pregnancy is not achieved as expected, it usually comes as a shock. One in eight people have struggled with infertility, making it sad that it’s not spoken about more broadly. Persistent attempts without success often lead to feelings of loss or failure. Over time, living in a world surrounded by those who are pregnant, who are parents with children and amidst families, becomes painful for those who do not have what others have, and what they wish to have for themselves. Unfortunately, infertility is not openly talked about. Like many other health-related topics, it impacts people intimately, and as a result, it remains invisible. There is little literature available for a general audience that helps shed light on infertility and the experiences of those who endure it. This book aims to address that.

For example, women who struggle with infertility tend to isolate themselves. They do this because they do not feel understood. Infertility is still a mystery in many ways, and people tend to avoid discussing topics that are unfamiliar to them or that make them uncomfortable. Much more needs to be done to normalize infertility as a condition that is, for a large part, treatable. Needless suffering does not need to be the norm, and those who desire to meet typical adult developmental milestones can do so with the proper support.

As this book shows, the most important thing is to foster a dialogue around infertility by shedding light on this topic and working together to learn about infertility and possibilities. Together, we should learn to support those who struggle with infertility by engaging with them mindfully and thoughtfully. The book features a foreword by Drexel University’s Dr. Pamela Geller.

Praise For “Struggling With Infertility”

“Struggling with Infertility” is an illuminating and heartfelt exploration into the multifaceted journey of infertility. It offers a unique blend of personal narratives and research-based insights that can appeal to those seeking information due to their lived experiences or their scientific inquiry.  – Katara Watkins-Laws, PhD, Licensed Psychologist, Washington, DC

“Struggling with Infertility” is an important testament to the complexities of fertility challenges and the journey to parenthood. Drawing from a wealth of case studies spanning clinical, academic, and social realms, this book encapsulates a rich tapestry of experiences, offering invaluable insights and fostering understanding in a deeply empathetic manner. – Marcela Kepič, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS

What is offered in this book is a fantastic way of talking about infertility and starting conversations…I found it very powerful, and it hit home a couple of times. I had to put it down for several days to distance myself again. It gives good insight into what is going on during this journey. Carrie Wilson, B. Pharm (Retired)

This insightful and compelling book provides an important perspective on the emotional impact and practical struggles surrounding the complex field of infertility. Dr. Schönteich draws from both narrative research and personal experience to provide an important addition to the topic. – Riara Wilson, MA, MSN, FNP-BC

About the Author

Dr. Sharon Schönteich has over a decade of experience working in the mental health field across various settings in New York City, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Her professional journey encompasses comprehensive work with children, adolescents, and adults in community mental health, forensic environments, and private practice settings. In recent years, Dr. Schönteich has focused on the well-being of emerging young adults and professionals, with a special focus on women’s health issues, particularly infertility, its treatments, and all facets of maternal health, including prenatal, perinatal, and postpartum care. Her areas of interest extend to treating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, self-esteem issues, and parenting challenges. Before entering the field of Clinical Psychology, she lived and worked in South Africa, where she contributed her skills to business and consulting, with a focus on organizational development and change, before moving to the United States over twenty years ago. Dr. Schönteich cares deeply about those who endure infertility struggles and who are navigating infertility treatment. Through personal experience and engaging in extensive research on infertility, mothering after infertility, and infertility treatment, she identifies an urgent need for the topic of infertility to be highlighted, recognized, and discussed more openly. Her goal is to inspire understanding and provide thoughtful, considerate, and sensitive support to those navigating the complexities of infertility treatments and the challenges they bring.

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