"Det är inte så himla ovanligt" : En studie i socialt arbete om ofrivillig barnlöshet

Sammanfattning: Infertility is a medical condition where a person either cannot become pregnant or make someone else pregnant. Infertility can be challenging and stressful to process for the individual or couple experiencing it. This study aimed to investigate infertility caused by medical circumstances through qualitative interviews with affected individuals as well as healthcare counsellors who has knowledge and experience within the area. The purpose of the study was to examine social norms surrounding infertility and get an understanding of how individuals involved in such a process can get support and guidance on how to tackle the issue. For this, four individuals affected by infertility and two healthcare counsellors were interviewed. To analyse the material, the theoretical perspectives of coping and social interactionism were applied. The results showed varied perspectives on norms around infertility and on how the challenges of infertility can be met. On the one hand, various difficulties were highlighted, from the handling of insecurities concerning social norms about ‘natural’ family building to feelings of outsidership, shame, sorrow and failure. Some of the coping strategies that emerged as useful were seeking social support and positive reinterpretation. On the other hand, the interviews revealed that for some, infertility is not perceived as an issue that leads to problems or negative feelings. Instead, infertility is spoken of as a situation that has had positive effects in their social interactions. The results highlight a general call for social openness about infertility.