When Empty Arms Become a Heavy Burden: Encouragement for Couples Facing Infertility

by Sandra L. Glahn, William R. Cutrer

One in six Americans of childbearing age experience infertility problems which lead to further struggles, including stress, sexual difficulties, marital discord, and a disturbing uncertainty about the future. Sandra Glahn knows these issues far too well and has teamed with medical specialist Dr. William Cutrer to reissue an updated edition of their trusted resource for couples struggling to have children. While focusing on the emotional and spiritual struggles that accompany infertility, Glahn and Cutrer also provide detailed information on associated medical issues and fertility treatments and alternatives. Questions at the end of each chapter and lists for recommended reading promote further discussion while case histories and personal testimonies make the facts relatable. With a sensitive touch and trusted advice, Glahn and Cutrer offer encouragement and hope for couples struggling with infertility.

240 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1996

About the author

Dr. Sandra Glahn is a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary. She is the author or co-author of more than twenty books, including the Coffee Cup Bible Study series. Her forthcoming work, Nobody's Mother: Artemis of the Ephesians in Antiquity and the New Testament, is slated for an October 2023 release.

Reviews

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Old, but not dated book on infertility. It focuses on the real emotional struggle and difficulty those facing infertility feel. It’s comforting without minimizing the real struggle. It’s written by a seminary professor who has faced her own struggles with infertility and a former OBGYN now turned pastor. The dual authors works well with the subject matter. I think anyone facing infertility will be encouraged by this book. It will help you not feel alone.

I’d recommend it for pastors so that they can better understand many in their pews.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this to better understand what someone near and dear to me has been going through. This book was WONDERFULLY done and helped shine light on different perspectives I had never thought about.

The book alternates between a Christian infertility doctor and a Christian woman experiencing infertility, and both of their accounts were beneficial for me as I have not experienced infertility but have several friends and family members who are quite familiar with these trials.

[Anne (In Search of Wonder) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great resource both for couples struggling with infertility and for their friends who want to support them. Sandra Glahn and her husband struggled with their infertility for many years, and Dr. Cutrer was her OB. Both are Christians, so this book has the personal perspective of a Been-There-Done-That mom, the expert medical advice of a professional, and the spiritual focus of believers.

[Christy Stewart · Rating 1 out of 5]

Won in first-reads program and it never arrived.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has truly been the most helpful resource I've found so far in our journey of infertility. It's a mix of emotional support, practical tips, and thought-provoking questions to help individuals and couples process the feelings, fears, and decisions associated with this season. Throughout, the book is full of faithful theology and biblical truths to encourage and sustain you along the journey. If you are wondering, wandering, hurting, or waiting on the unfulfilled desire of a baby in your arms, or walking with a friend or family member who is, I cannot recommend this book enough.

[Michelle Smitham · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read if you are struggling with infertility. Put so many thoughts/feelings to words

[Shelli]

This is the book that supplements the material we are reviewing in the bible study at Watermark. We only plan to review about half of the chapters, though, so I intend to finish the rest after we finish the bible study.

[Tammie · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I am a mom of five myself...I do enjoy reading medical/therapy type books. Once I read this I will be sure to pass it along to someone who can benefit from it also.

Eager for the mailman to arrive with my latest Giveaway!

[Austin Surridge]

Looks really Good!!!! Can't wait to read it!!!

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

won this on first reads. Never received this.