Coping With Infertility, Miscarriage, and Neonatal Loss: Finding Perspective and Creating Meaning (LifeTools: Books for the General Public) by Amy Wenzel

by Amy Wenzel

Pregnancy loss can be devastating, regardless of whether it is early or late in pregnancy or in the short period after a baby is born. In many instances, similar emotions are experienced when a couple learns that their fertility treatments were unsuccessful. Here, well-known psychologist Amy Wenzel applies the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy a thoroughly-researched approach for treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and stress-related disorders to the experience of reproductive loss. She offers strategies for coping with loss and provides a step-by-step guide to reengaging in life. With warmth and compassion, she helps readers journey toward healing.

Genres: Grief, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published March 1, 2014

Reviews

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic book that didn’t only give stories of women who have gone through reproductive loss or fertility struggles, but actual concrete strategies and concepts. My only note is some of it gets a bit technical for laymen. But overall so helpful, I would absolutely recommend!

[Natalia Provolo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read for clinic

[Gen L · Rating 3 out of 5]

As with all the books I've encountered in the topic this one focuses mostly in loss, occasionally throwing infertility in as a "oh hey you could probably use the techniques for this too". The author does make a point to include both partners and to avoid too much heteronormativity which is much appreciated.

[Kristinita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully well-written book on a very heavy and sensitive topic.

I’ll try to come back soon with a better review, but if you or someone close to you has suffered this type of loss, pick this book up — it just might help you when you really need it.

[Sunday Dutro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely the best book I’ve encountered on moving on with your life after a major shake up. Doesn’t even have to be miscarriage or child loss.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great reminder of how to utilize CBT in new issues. Mostly focused on miscarriage and neonatal loss instead of infertility generally.

[Ally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an empathetic but practical book on reproductive losses and the pursuits of motherhood.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book! I knew it would consist of quality information because it was published by the American Psychological Association and was written by a clinical psychologist who specializes in cognitive behavior therapy (my favorite style). I was very pleased to find that the author has an inviting tone and writes in a way that is easy to understand. She has coped with pregnancy loss and infertility and writes from a place of understanding and compassion. Written from a cognitive behavior perspective, the book is practical about taking steps to care for yourself to facilitate healing. More than once the author states that every person will heal differently, but provides information that everyone can use. The book is written for both partners, though does lean towards women. It was written more for couples who have experienced a pregnancy loss than for those who are coping with infertility, though couples in all of these situations could find it to be helpful. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is coping with reproductive loss.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is full of suggestions and coping strategies for processing grief. There is a little bit about the why and how of pregnancy loss, but this book is more about acknowledging your grief and dealing with it. I definitely recommend it, and I may reread it in a few months.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, thorough book for therapists, health care professionals and patients.