The Spiritual Identity of Women Coping with Infertility in a Religion Stressing Fertility

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe the spiritual experiences of women dealing with infertility in a fertility-focused religion. The research investigated whether changes to spiritual identity and connection, spiritual and/or religious practices, and perceptions regarding a relationship with God occurred in the context of women dealing with infertility in a fertility-focused religion. Since Paganism is a fertility-focused religion, a sample of 15 Pagan women between 30–67 years of age was drawn from responders of ads placed in Pagan publications. The primary source of data were audiotaped, in-depth interviews. A qualitative approach was used to develop a narrative pertaining to the role of spirituality in women experiencing infertility in a fertility-focused religion, of which Paganism is an example. The study supported the idea that infertility experiences in fertility-focused religions do influence spiritual identity and connection, spiritual and/or religious practices, and perceptions regarding a relationship with God. Six emergent study themes resulted: (a) adopting values and beliefs related to their identity in reference to the natural world and internal senses of themselves as being; (b) acceptance of not being a mother and that being a mother was not vital to either their role in society or their sense of self-worth; (c) incorporation of spiritual practices tied to the body; (d) increased incorporation of spiritual practices as the embodiment of spiritual practice within one’s lifestyle; (e) expressing spirituality and connection with Deity in everyday activities; and, (f) perceiving their relationship with the Divine a relationship support and collaboration.