The Study of Identity Construction, Social Support and Treatment Experience of Infertile Women under the Framework of Illness Narratives

Based on in-depth interviews with infertile women, this paper examines the identity construction, social support, and assisted reproductive treatment experience under the theoretical lens of "illness narratives". By comparing situations in which infertility is caused by female factors versus male factors, the findings show that when infertility is attributed primarily to women, they tend to exhibit negative identity construction, low self-recognition, and heightened anxiety during treatment. In contrast, when infertility is primarily due to male factors, women display greater bodily confidence and share reproductive responsibility jointly with their husbands. In these two different situations, the social support that women receive also varies, leading to different treatment experiences. Although these differences appear to be driven by the biological cause of infertility, they are in fact deeply shaped by broader socio-cultural influences. This paper puts forward corresponding policy suggestions in order to promote shared responsibility among infertile couples, and to advance gender equality.