Infertility by choice or by nature

Sexually active women have only recently had the ability to make a conscious decision to delay or refrain from bearing children. This is not only the result of the availability of effective contraceptive methods but also due to attitudinal changes in society and individuals. These reproductive choices may result, for some women, in conflict over the use of contraceptives, and the decision or timing of pregnancy. However, infertility imposed by nature in the form of inability to conceive, miscarriage or stillbirth removes the woman's sense of control over this important aspect of her life and frequently results in severe distress. The psychological issues surrounding these reproductive choices and events are reviewed and discussed.