In this conversation, Eli Weinstein, therapist and IVF parent, joins Gila Block of Yesh Tikva to explore how men experience infertility, reproductive grief, and fertility treatment—and what happens when partners experience the same journey in very different ways.

Together, they discuss the emotional impact of IVF, male factor infertility, miscarriage, unsuccessful treatment cycles, and the losses that often go unrecognized when trying to build a family.

How Men Experience Infertility and Reproductive Grief

Infertility can be deeply isolating for men, particularly when they feel expected to remain strong, focus on solutions, or prioritize their partner’s emotional needs over their own.

Eli explores how guilt, shame, helplessness, and questions about masculinity can shape men’s experiences of infertility, especially when a male factor diagnosis is involved. He also discusses how men may struggle to recognize or express their grief, even when the experience has profoundly affected them.

When Couples Experience Infertility Differently

What happens when two people are grieving the same experience but expressing that grief in completely different ways?

One partner may need to talk, while the other withdraws. One may focus on researching treatment options and finding solutions, while the other needs time to process disappointment or loss.

These differences can create misunderstandings, resentment, or emotional distance, particularly during the ongoing uncertainty of IVF and fertility treatment.

Rather than comparing whose experience is harder, this conversation encourages couples to recognize that different responses to infertility do not necessarily mean different levels of grief, investment, or love.

For another perspective on how infertility can reshape relationships, explore Navigating 15 Years of Infertility: Marriage, Identity, and Reconnection.

Supporting Each Other Through IVF, Pregnancy Loss, and Infertility

Supporting a partner through infertility can be difficult when you’re also struggling yourself. This conversation explores the importance of communicating emotional needs, acknowledging losses that may not be visible to others, and finding support beyond the relationship.

Whether you’re navigating male factor infertility, coping with miscarriage, facing another unsuccessful IVF cycle, or feeling disconnected from your partner, this discussion offers perspective on how couples can better understand each other’s experiences without expecting them to be identical.

Finding Support for Infertility and Grief

You don’t need to wait until your relationship is in crisis to seek support.

Yesh Tikva offers resources for individuals and couples navigating infertility, reproductive loss, and complex family-building journeys. Our Support Line provides a confidential space to talk through difficult emotions, explore available resources, and identify meaningful next steps.

You can also explore our Resource Hub for additional conversations and educational resources about infertility, relationships, grief, and emotional well-being.