[Extent of physical and psychic complaints of married couples with sterility (author's transl)].

An account is given of conspicuous physical and psychic symptoms which were recorded from 65 married couples with undesired lack of children by means of a complaint questionnaire according to Höck and Hess. Complaints recorded were primarily associated with sensorial and vegetative phenomena as well as with fears and inhibitions. Symptom frequencies were dependent on and independent of causes of sterility, but more and comprehensive symptoms were recordable from both sexes when causes were unknown to the couples concerned. The psychosomatic nature of sterility and possible neurotising effects of childlessness are discussed, with reference being made to their relevance to treatment.