Inside Infertility

Emma and Jonathan are trying to have a baby.  Emma is a bright, bubbly, 28 year old woman with long blond curls and a winning smile.  She has been married to Jonathan for just over 3 years.  She works as an advertising executive at a major corporation. Jonathan, 31, is the more laid back of the two.  As a successful cinematographer, he tends to more of an observer.  His dark eyes and curious nature absorb the world in a reflective and deliberate manner.  In contrast, Emma is very energetic, and vocal—even impulsive.  Their differences have always amused and complemented one another. They have relished a relationship full of laughter, support and hope for the future.

Emma and Jonathan began to try to conceive about a year ago.  In the beginning the process was full of excitement and romantic moments.  Their attempts at conception were sexy and soulful, meaningful and playful---full of hope for the future.  The couple was disappointed when the first 3 months passed with no good news.  However, they were optimistic and took the lack of immediate results in stride.  After six months, Emma started to worry.  She insisted they seek medical attention in spite of Jonathan’s reluctance.  Jonathan believed more time and less stress would produce the results they so yearned for.  But Emma insisted.

For both, the news was shocking and devastating.  Something was wrong.  Tests revealed that Emma had an ovulation disorder that was preventing a regular production of eggs as well as compromising the quality of eggs that were produced.  The couple learned that their best chance of conception was through in vitro fertilization—a costly, invasive, and lengthy process.  Both agreed to begin the process immediately.  At the onset, the couple remained very close---united in their sadness, fear, and hope.  They supported and comforted eachother as they faced the biggest challenge of their young relationship.  However, over time, after three failed in-vitro attempts, things began to change.