Abstract
M.Cur.
With this research it was endeavoured to gain more knowledge
about the experiences of women during the treatment of
infertility. The midwife and other medical staff involved with
the treatment of infertility can use this knowledge to have
better insight into the total problem of these women and also
care for and support them better.
A study of the literature was done to determine what the experts
have already ascertained of this phenomenon. An in-depth study
of the phenomenon was undertaken in which the autobiographical
method was mostly used. During April 1989 unstructured interviews
were conducted with six selected infertile women living in
the witwatersrand area.
From the findings of this research it appears that infertile
women have unique experiences of their infertility and the treatment
of it. Universal experiences, ego pain and disappointment
were identified, although the causes of these experiences sometimes
differed. Recommendations were made on how the midwife
can contribute by filling the gap (established during the
research) in the care in this field. Suggestions were also made
with regard to further research on this phenomenon.