1
|
Kiani Z, Simbar M, Rashidi F, Zayeri F, Banaderakhsh H. The quality of life of men experiencing infertility: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1236. [PMID: 38705989 PMCID: PMC11070083 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18758-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men experiencing infertility encounter numerous problems at the individual, family, and social levels as well as quality of life (QOL). This study was designed to investigate the QOL of men experiencing infertility through a systematic review. MATERIALS AND METHODS This systematic review was conducted without any time limitation (Retrieval date: July 1, 2023) in international databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The search was performed by two reviewers separately using keywords such as QOL, infertility, and men. Studies were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the articles were evaluated based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. In the initial search, 308 studies were reviewed, and after removing duplicates and checking the title and abstract, the full text of 87 studies were evaluated. RESULTS Finally, 24 studies were included in the final review based on the research objectives. Based on the results, men's QOL scores in different studies varied from 55.15 ± 13.52 to 91.45 ± 13.66%. Of the total reviewed articles, the lowest and highest scores were related to mental health problems and physical dimensions, respectively. CONCLUSION The reported findings vary across various studies conducted in different countries. Analysis of the factors affecting these differences is necessary, and it is recommended to design a standard tool for assessing the quality of life of infertile men. Given the importance of the QOL in men experiencing infertility, it is crucial to consider it in the health system. Moreover, a plan should be designed, implemented and evaluated according to each country's contex to improve the quality of life of infertile men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Kiani
- Midwifery and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Simbar
- Midwifery and Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Farzaneh Rashidi
- Department of Midwifery, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Farid Zayeri
- Proteomics Research Center, Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Homayoon Banaderakhsh
- Department of Anesthesia and Operating Room, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li G, Xu Y, Li Y, Chang D, Zhang P, Ma Z, Chen D, You Y, Huang X, Cai J. Qiangjing tablets ameliorate asthenozoospermia via mitochondrial ubiquitination and mitophagy mediated by LKB1/AMPK/ULK1 signaling. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2023; 61:271-280. [PMID: 36655371 PMCID: PMC9858429 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2023.2168021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Therapeutic effects of Qiangjing tablets (QJT) on sperm vitality and asthenozoospermia (AZS) have been confirmed. However, the mechanism of action remains unclear. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the effects of QJT on AZS and the underlying mechanism of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups: Control, ORN (ornidazole; 200 mg/kg), ORN + QJT-low (0.17 g/mL), ORN + QJT-middle (0.33 g/mL), ORN + QJT-high (0.67 g/mL), and ORN + QJT + Radicicol (0.67 g/mL QJT and 20 mg/kg radicicol) groups. Pathological evaluation and analysis of mitophagy were conducted by H&E staining and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. Reactive oxygen species were detected by flow cytometry. Protein expression was determined by Western blotting. RESULTS QJT significantly improved ORN-treated sperm motility and kinematic parameters, as well as the pathological symptoms of testicular and epididymal tissues. In particular, QJT mitigated impaired mitochondrial morphology, and increased the PHB, Beclin-1, LC3-II protein, and ROS levels (p < 0.05), and reduced the protein expression levels of LC3-I and p62 (p < 0.05). Mechanistically, QJT antagonized the downregulation of SCF and Parkin protein levels (p < 0.05). Furthermore, QJT significantly increased the protein expressions levels of LKB1, AMPKα, p-AMPKα, ULK1 and p-ULK1 (p < 0.05). The ameliorative effect of QJT on pathological manifestations, mitochondrial morphology, and the expressions of mitophagy and mitochondrial ubiquitination-related proteins was counteracted by radicicol. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS QJT improved AZS via mitochondrial ubiquitination and mitophagy mediated by the LKB1/AMPK/ULK1 signaling pathway. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the treatment of AZS and male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangsen Li
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuanjie Xu
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yingxi Li
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Degui Chang
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Peihai Zhang
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ziyang Ma
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Di’ang Chen
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yaodong You
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaopeng Huang
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian Cai
- Department of Urology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lizán Tudela C, Cuevas Sáiz I, Abad de Velasco L, Gregori Navarro L, Comellas M, Pérez-Sádaba FJ, Lizán L. The Perspective of Patients and Health Professionals on the Prioritization of Assisted Reproductive Techniques. The PRIOFER Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:2641-2653. [PMID: 37927341 PMCID: PMC10624199 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s421041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the perspective of patients and professionals in Assisted Reproduction Units (ARU) on the importance of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) compared to other elective procedures, to highlight the relevance of ART as an elective procedure and the impact of delayed interventions on patients. Design Patients and Methods An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, online survey-based study was conducted in infertility patients and partners (n=98) and ARU healthcare professionals (n=83). The survey included a best-worst scaling (BWS) experiment and an ad-hoc questionnaire to analyze the pandemic impact on ART management and infertility patients in Spain. In the BWS, each respondent established priorities choosing which patient profile should be rated as the highest and lowest priority profile on a waiting list. To understand the importance that they give to assisted reproduction compared to other procedures, three very common elective procedures involving different patient profiles were selected: cataract surgery, knee arthroplasty, and varicose vein surgery. For each procedure, three hypothetical patient profiles corresponding to three different degrees of severity on a waiting list were designed. Results Patients attributed greater importance to ART profiles (BWS score: patients 0.14 vs professionals -0.05; p<0.01) whereas professionals prioritized cataract surgery (patients 0.06 vs professionals 0.23; p<0.01). Concerning the profile severity, more severe profiles were prioritized in all procedures by both groups. Patients' and professionals' perspectives on the impact of the pandemic were similar, with exceptions: information received for resuming ART; health care provision in crisis situations; and reduction of parenting options. The pandemic affected patients' ability to conceive a child (70.4% of those surveyed), their psychological well-being (75.5%), and partner, social, and work relationships (69.4%). Conclusion Preference studies involving patients and professionals can provide important information to define framework criteria for the management of waiting lists for elective procedures, and to prioritize interventions during pandemic periods. The pandemic impact on infertility patients highlights the relevance of developing measures and strategies to cope with similar future situations in the most appropriate way.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- César Lizán Tudela
- Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Clínico Universitario, Valencia, 46010, Spain
| | - Irene Cuevas Sáiz
- Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, 46014, Spain
| | - Lorenzo Abad de Velasco
- Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, 46014, Spain
| | - Laura Gregori Navarro
- Department of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Clínico Universitario, Valencia, 46010, Spain
| | | | | | - Luis Lizán
- Outcomes 10 SLU, Castellón de la Plana, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Jaume I University, Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ni Y, Shen H, Yao H, Zhang E, Tong C, Qian W, Huang L, Wu X, Feng Q. Differences in Fertility-Related Quality of Life and Emotional Status Among Women Undergoing Different IVF Treatment Cycles. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:1873-1882. [PMID: 37250753 PMCID: PMC10216870 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s411740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The present study aimed to provide more insight into the possible differences in the fertility-related quality of life (FertiQoL) and emotional status of women undergoing different cycles of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. Methods A prospective cohort study was performed, and a total of 432 women undergoing IVF treatment were recruited. FertiQoL scale, self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS), and perceived social support scale (PSSS) were used to analyze fertility-related QoL and emotional status. Data were analyzed comparing women undergoing different cycles of IVF treatments. Results A significant decrease in FertiQoL scores occurred in women with increased cycles of IVF treatment. Both anxiety and depression scores significantly increased with increased cycles of attempting IVF treatment. There was no significant difference detected in perceived social support among groups. Conclusion With the increase in the number of IVF treatment cycles, women's FertiQoL gradually decreased, while the risk of anxiety and depression gradually increased.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Ni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Shen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haihui Yao
- Xianda College of Economics and Humanities, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Enming Zhang
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chenye Tong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Qian
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Limin Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xian Wu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing Feng
- Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ozcan S, Kirca N. Effects of care given in line with Levine's Conservation Model on the quality of life of women receiving infertility treatment: A single blind randomized controlled trial. Health Care Women Int 2023; 44:418-439. [PMID: 34846278 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2021.2007927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Although infertility is not a life-threatening condition, it decreases the quality of life of people. This single blind randomized controlled trial was conducted with 80 women who received infertility treatment in an IVF Center located in a city center in the west of Turkey between May 2020 and February 2021. It was determined that thanks to the holistic care given in line with Levine's Conservation Model (LCM), fatigue levels of the women in the experimental group decreased, their energy levels increased, their structural, personal and social integrity was conserved and thus their quality of life improved compared to the women in the control group (all p < 0.001).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sadiye Ozcan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecological Nursing, Yalova University Faculty of Health Sciences, Yalova, Turkey
| | - Nurcan Kirca
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecological Nursing, Akdeniz University Faculty of Nursing, Antalya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kremer F, Ditzen B, Wischmann T. Effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for infertile women: A systematic review and meta-analysis with a focus on a method-critical evaluation. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282065. [PMID: 36854039 PMCID: PMC9974119 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately seven to nine percent of couples of reproductive age do not get pregnant despite regular and unprotected sexual intercourse. Various psychosocial interventions for women and men with fertility disorders are repeatedly found in the literature. The effects of these interventions on outcomes such as anxiety and depression, as well as on the probability of pregnancy, do not currently allow for reliable generalisable statements. This review includes studies published since 2015 performing a method-critical evaluation of the studies. Furthermore, we suggest how interventions could be implemented in the future to improve anxiety, depression, and pregnancy rates. METHOD The project was registered with Prospero (CRD42021242683 13 April 2021). The literature search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Six databases were searched and 479 potential studies were discovered. After reviewing the full texts, ten studies were included for the synthesis. Not all studies reported the three outcomes: four studies each for depression, three for anxiety and nine studies for pregnancy rates were included in the meta-analysis, which was conducted using the Comprehensive meta-analysis (CMA) software. RESULTS Psychosocial interventions do not significantly change women's anxiety (Hedges' g -0,006; CI: -0,667 to 0,655; p = 0,985), but they have a significant impact on depression in infertile women (Hedges' g -0,893; CI: -1,644 to -0,145; p = 0,026). Implementations of psychosocial interventions during assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment do not increase pregnancy rates (odds ratio 1,337; 95% CI 0,983 to 1,820; p = 0,064). The methodological critical evaluation indicates heterogeneous study design and samples. The results of the studies were determined with different methods and make comparability difficult. All these factors do not allow for a uniform conclusion. METHODOLOGICAL CRITICAL EVALUATION Study design (duration and timing of intervention, type of intervention, type of data collection) and samples (age of women, reason for infertility, duration of infertility) are very heterogeneous. The results of the studies were determined with different methods and make comparability difficult. All these factors do not allow for a uniform conclusion. CONCLUSION In order to be able to better compare psychosocial interventions and their influence on ART treatment and thus also to achieve valid results, a standardised procedure to the mentioned factors is necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Kremer
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Beate Ditzen
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tewes Wischmann
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Dias L, Willems SG, Luyten J, De Loecker P, D'Hooghe TM, Peeraer K, Dancet EAF. The need for longitudinal data on the value of fertility treatment for infertile patients' quality of life: A review and pilot study. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023:102324. [PMID: 36948947 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Infertility threatens the life goal of parenthood and, hence, quality of life (QoL) of (wo)men, but the fertility clinic trajectory might be burdensome. This review of longitudinal studies and pilot longitudinal study examines the impact of the pre-in vitro fertilization (IVF) fertility clinic trajectory on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for emotional well-being, including QoL. A publication found that the diagnostic workup decreases men's infertility-specific distress while publications disagree whether it decreases (wo)men's anxious and depressive reactions. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) was found to increase (wo)men's depressive reactions. Publications on infertility-specific, health-related, and overall QoL were missing. The pilot indicated that (wo)men's overall QoL is not affected by the diagnostic workup but is decreased by the time of the third IUI. Longitudinal studies on the impact of starting the fertility clinic trajectory on PROMs are needed as they are essential for patient-centered clinical decision-making and patient-centered policy-level decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Dias
- Fertiliteitscentrum Antwerpen, GZA Ziekenhuizen, Oosterveldlaan 24, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - S G Willems
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 Blok D - Bus 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - J Luyten
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 Blok D - Bus 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - P De Loecker
- Fertiliteitscentrum Antwerpen, GZA Ziekenhuizen, Oosterveldlaan 24, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - T M D'Hooghe
- Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Merck, United States.
| | - K Peeraer
- Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - E A F Dancet
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 Blok D - Bus 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lo SST, Wong GCY, Ng EHY, Chan CHY, Li RHW. Longitudinal study on sexual function and quality of life in infertile couples undergoing intrauterine insemination. J Sex Med 2023; 20:30-37. [PMID: 36897240 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdac013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cross-sectional studies have shown that sexual dysfunction and poor quality of life were prevalent among couples undergoing assisted reproduction at specific time points, but nothing is known about how these outcomes change over the course of their intrauterine insemination (IUI) journey. AIM We investigated the longitudinal changes in sexual function and quality of life of infertile couples undergoing IUI. METHODS Sixty-six infertile couples completed an anonymous questionnaire at 3 time points: after IUI counseling (T1), 1 day before IUI (T2), and 2 weeks after IUI (T3). The questionnaire consisted of demographic data, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) or International Index of Erectile Function-5, and Fertility Quality of Life (FertiQoL). OUTCOMES Descriptive statistics, significance testing with the Friedman test, and post hoc analysis with the Wilcoxon signed rank test were used to compare changes in sexual function and quality of life at different time points. RESULTS Overall, 18 (26.1%), 16 (23.2%), and 12 (17.4%) women and 29 (42.0%), 37 (53.6%), and 31 (44.9%) men were at risk for sexual dysfunction at T1, T2, and T3, respectively. There were significant differences in mean FSFI scores in arousal (3.87, 4.06, 4.10) and orgasm (4.15, 4.24, 4.39) domains at T1, T2, and T3. After post hoc analysis, only the increase in mean orgasm FSFI scores between T1 and T3 was statistically significant. Men's FertiQoL scores remained high during IUI (74.33-75.63 out of 100). Men also scored significantly higher than women on all FertiQoL domains except environment at the 3 time points. Post hoc analysis showed significant improvement in women's FertiQoL domain scores between T1 and T2: mind-body, environment, treatment, and total. Women's FertiQoL score at T2 for the treatment domain was also significantly higher than that at T3. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Men should not be neglected during IUI as their erectile function got worse in the process, with half of the men being affected. Although women's quality of life showed some improvement during IUI, most of their scores were lower than men's. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The use of psychometrically validated questionnaires and a longitudinal approach are the major strengths; a small sample size and the lack of a dyadic approach are the major limitations. CONCLUSION During IUI, women's sexual performance and quality of life improved. The proportion of men having erectile problems was high for this age group, but men's FertiQoL scores remained good and were better than their partners' throughout IUI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sue Seen-Tsing Lo
- Health Services Division, The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Grace Ching-Yin Wong
- Health Services Division, The Family Planning Association of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ernest Hung-Yu Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Celia Hoi-Yan Chan
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Raymond Hang-Wun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Martins R, Connolly MP. Valuing live births from assisted reproduction: A health economics viewpoint. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2022; 85:149-158. [PMID: 36443158 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a medical condition that can be overcome, thanks to advances in medically assisted reproductive (MAR) therapies. Despite the ultimate measure of MAR efficacy being the birth of a new human being, there are ethical and methodological questions as to which outcome best translates the value of MAR in cost-effectiveness analyses. Many authors favour cost per life birth outcomes instead of more traditional cost per quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), which raises generalizability issues for decision-makers. Nonetheless, infertility and infertility treatments substantially differ from other health conditions and health treatments, particularly in the way they affect the quality of life of the infertile couple. Collecting quality of life measures in infertility and pregnancy is also surrounded by challenges not easily overcome. We reflect on cost-effectiveness methods applied to MAR technologies, on ethical considerations for valuing a MAR-generated life, and on its broader societal value for consideration by decision-makers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Martins
- Global Market Access Solutions, Health Economics Unit, St-Prex, Switzerland; University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mark P Connolly
- Global Market Access Solutions, Health Economics Unit, St-Prex, Switzerland; Unit of Pharmacoepidemiology & Pharmacoeconomics, Department of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bagade T, Thapaliya K, Breuer E, Kamath R, Li Z, Sullivan E, Majeed T. Investigating the association between infertility and psychological distress using Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH). Sci Rep 2022; 12:10808. [PMID: 35752691 PMCID: PMC9233676 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15064-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects millions of people globally. Although an estimated 1 in 6 couples in Australia are unable to conceive without medical intervention, little is known about the mental health impacts of infertility. This study investigated how infertility impacts the mental health of women. The study used nationally representative Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) data. We analysed data from survey periods 2-8 conducted every three years between 2000 and 2018 for 6582 women born in 1973-78. We used a Generalised Equation Modelling (GEE) method to investigate the association of primary, secondary and resolved fertility status and psychological distress over time. Multiple measures were used to measure psychological distress: the (1) the mental health index subscale of the 36-item short form survey (SF-36), (2) the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10), (3) the Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale (GADanx) anxiety subscale; and a (4) composite psychological distress variable. About a third (30%) of women reported infertility at any of the survey rounds; a steady increase over 18 years from 1.7% at round 2 to 19.3% at round 8. Half of the women reporting primary or secondary infertility reported psychological distress, with the odds of having psychological distress was higher in women reporting primary (odds ratio (OR) 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06-1.45), secondary (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.10-1.46) or resolved infertility (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.05-1.26) compared to women reporting normal fertility status. Women with partners, underweight or higher BMI, smoking, and high-risk alcohol use had higher odds of psychological distress, whereas women in paid work had significantly lower odds of psychological distress (p < 0.001). Diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and other chronic physical illness were independently associated with higher odds of psychological distress. Infertility has a significant impact on mental health even after it is resolved. Frequent mental health assessment and a holistic approach to address the lifestyle factors should be undertaken during the treatment of infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanmay Bagade
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
| | - Kailash Thapaliya
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Registry of Senior Australians (ROSA), South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Erica Breuer
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | | | - Zhuoyang Li
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Sullivan
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Tazeen Majeed
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Validation of the Portuguese Version of the Fertility Adjustment Scale. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10030563. [PMID: 35327041 PMCID: PMC8954057 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10030563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need to provide healthcare professionals and midwives with validated tools as to improve fertility adjustment and promote well-being of couples with infertility. The purpose of this study was to test validity of the Fertility Adjustment Scale among people undergoing assisted reproductive techniques. A cross-sectional and methodological study was conducted, and a total of 104 Portuguese adults undergoing fertility treatment were recruited through fertility-related websites. The Fertility Adjustment Scale was administered along with the Spiritual Well-Being Questionnaire and the Resilience Scale for adults as a measure of concurrent validity. Scores revealed the sample’s lack of adjustment to fertility. A significant correlation with measures of resilience provided evidence of convergent validity. There was a significant association of fertility adjustment with time of consultation and the cause of infertility. A Fertility Adjustment Scale with six items is a reliable tool that offers early recognition of patients’ difficulties in adaptation to fertility problems during assisted reproductive techniques, which could be beneficial in not only an early recognition of healthcare intervention but of a more individualized approach to such patients.
Collapse
|
12
|
Makara-Studzińska M, Limanin A, Anusiewicz A, Janczyk P, Raczkiewicz D, Wdowiak-Filip A, Filip M, Bojar I, Lukaszuk K, Wdowiak A. Assessment of Quality of Life in Men Treated for Infertility in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052950. [PMID: 35270642 PMCID: PMC8910325 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life (QoL) of men treated for infertility in Poland. This cross-sectional study was conducted using the Abbreviated World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF), Fertility Quality of Life tool (FertiQoL) and an author-constructed questionnaire. The study included 1200 men treated for infertility without the use of assisted reproductive technology (non-ART), intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). The control group consisted of 100 healthy men with confirmed fertility. The quality of life assessed by the WHOQoL-BREF questionnaire was significantly lower in study groups in the Environmental domain, compared to the control group (p = 0.009). Statistically significant differences were found in the case of FertiQoL subscales: Emotional, Mind-Body, Relational, and Treatment Environment, depending on applied treatment. Men whose partners were treated without the use of ART assessed their QoL significantly more negatively than those treated with IUI. Reproductive problems and type of their treatment influenced the quality of life of the affected men. Non-ART treatment, rural place of residence, and increased BMI were associated with lower QoL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Makara-Studzińska
- Department of Health Psychology, Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, ul. Kopernika 25, 31-501 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Limanin
- FertiMedica—Fertility Center, ul. Jana Pawła Woronicza 31 lok. 8U, 02-640 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Anusiewicz
- Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 4 in Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Paula Janczyk
- Laboratory of Fundamentals of Maternity Care, Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, ul. Zamoyskiego 58, 30-523 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Dorota Raczkiewicz
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Kleczewska 61/63, 01-826 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Anita Wdowiak-Filip
- Department of Cosmetology and Aesthetic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodźki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Michał Filip
- Department of Obstetrics and Pathology of Pregnancy, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Staszica 16, 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Iwona Bojar
- Department of Women’s Health, Institute of Rural Health in Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Lukaszuk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Sklodowskiej-Curie 3a, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland;
- Invicta Research and Development Center, ul. Polna 64, 81-740 Sopot, Poland
- iYoni App by LifeBite, ul. Martyniaka 16 lok. 1, 10-763 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Artur Wdowiak
- Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, 4-6 Staszica St., 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Boedt T, Willaert N, Lie Fong S, Dancet E, Spiessens C, Raes F, Matthys C, Van der Gucht K. Evaluation of a stand-alone mobile mindfulness app in people experiencing infertility: the protocol for an exploratory randomised controlled trial (MoMiFer-RCT). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e050088. [PMID: 35110309 PMCID: PMC8811542 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infertility and its treatment bring a considerable emotional burden. Increasing evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of smartphone-delivered mindfulness apps for reducing symptoms of emotional distress in both clinical and non-clinical populations. Evidence on this topic in women, men and couples experiencing infertility is currently under-represented. The aim of the MoMiFer study is, therefore, to investigate the efficacy of a stand-alone mobile mindfulness app on symptoms of emotional distress and fertility-related quality of life in people experiencing infertility. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study is an exploratory randomised controlled trial (RCT) with open enrollment. The primary outcomes are symptoms of emotional distress and fertility-related quality of life. Secondary outcomes are mindfulness skills, repetitive negative thinking, self-compassion, user-rated quality of the stand-alone mobile mindfulness app and use of the app. Experience sampling method and standardised self-report questionnaires are combined within a repeated measures design to measure the effects of the stand-alone mobile mindfulness app on the primary and secondary outcomes, apart from the use of the app. The latter will be evaluated through app tracking. People, including women, men and couples, experiencing infertility (n=60) will be randomised to an intervention group receiving the stand-alone mobile mindfulness app for 3 months or a wait-list control group. The app follows the format and content of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Data will be collected at baseline, at 1.5 months and 3 months after randomisation. Analysis will be according to intention to treat and based on general linear modelling and multilevel mixed-effects modelling. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study received approval from the Medical Ethical Committee of the Leuven University Hospital (Belgium). The findings of this exploratory RCT will be disseminated through presentations at public lectures, scientific institutions and meetings, and through peer-reviewed scientific articles. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04143828.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tessy Boedt
- Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven Mindfulness Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nele Willaert
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sharon Lie Fong
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eline Dancet
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Carl Spiessens
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Filip Raes
- Leuven Mindfulness Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christophe Matthys
- Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Clinical Nutrition, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katleen Van der Gucht
- Leuven Mindfulness Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Huang CY, Chuang HL, Tsai LY, Lu YC, Liou CF, Lee MS, Kuo CP, Lee SH. Differences in sexual activities and information seeking behaviors between women who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) and who conceived without IVF. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2021.2023736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Yi Huang
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Ling Chuang
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Ya Tsai
- Department of Nursing, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Chiao Lu
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chiou-Fang Liou
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Maw-Sheng Lee
- Lee Women’s Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Pyng Kuo
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hsin Lee
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Pugi D, Dèttore D, Marazziti D, Ferretti F, Coluccia A, Coccia ME, Pozza A. Fertility-Related Quality of Life in Men Undergoing Medically Assisted Reproduction During the Pandemic: Perfectionism and Thought Control Beliefs Moderate the Effects of the Type of Treatment. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2021; 18:312-323. [PMID: 35096078 PMCID: PMC8785427 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20210605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE After a diagnosis of infertility, an increasing number of couples turns to the Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR) to achieve a pregnancy. A diagnosis of infertility has a negative impact on the individual's well-being and it can increase the risk of anxious-depressive symptoms, stress, and low self-esteem. Data associated with infertility-related Quality of Life (QoL) are lacking in men. Little is known about men's experience of infertility and its treatments during the pandemic. Among the variables potentially associated with infertility-related QoL, the role of obsessive beliefs is neglected, although preliminary studies considered perfectionistic traits. METHOD One hundred and fifty-one participants were included. Eighty men (mean age: 40.83 years) were attending a MAR pathway. Of these, 50 men (67.5%) were undergoing homologous MAR and 30 men (37.5%) were undergoing heterologous MAR. A control group consisting of 71 subjects (mean age: 36.69 years), paired by age, marital status, and number of children, was drawn from the general population. The Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire-46, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-20, and the Fertility Quality of Life Questionnaire were administered. RESULTS High levels of anxiety, depression and stress were moderately associated with lower infertility-related Quality of Life. For men undergoing homologous MAR, perfectionism beliefs represented a vulnerability factor for a lower fertility-related QoL, while for men undergoing heterologous MAR, high thought control beliefs represented a risk factor for a lower fertility-related QoL. CONCLUSIONS A focus on the obsessive beliefs should be included in the psychological treatment of infertile men, specifically perfectionism in homologous MAR and control of thoughts in heterologous MAR. Therefore, psychological assessment and support interventions should be personalized according to the MAR pathway and be focused on men's cognitive features in order to improve their QoL during the MAR pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Pugi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Davide Dèttore
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Donatella Marazziti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Italy, UNICamillus University of Health Medical Sciences, Roma, Italy
| | - Fabio Ferretti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Coluccia
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Elisabetta Coccia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Pozza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy,Corresponding author Andrea Pozza, PhD Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery, and Neurosciences, University of Siena, viale Bracci 16‐53100 Siena, Italy Phone: + 39 0577586409 Fax. +39 0577233222
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Salcuni S, Mancinelli E, Muneratti A, Grillo A, Alessi C, Guglielmino A, Finos L. Couples undergoing Assisted Reproductive Techniques: An Actor-Partner Interdependence Model of dyadic adjustment, attachment, and body-image avoidance. Health Psychol Open 2021; 8:20551029211039923. [PMID: 34671483 PMCID: PMC8521762 DOI: 10.1177/20551029211039923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim is to assess the commonalities and interdependence referred to body-image avoidance among 118 couples newly introduced to first-level assisted reproductive techniques. Results showed non-clinical functioning levels, and partners showed a correlated, yet low, dyadic adjustment. The couple-effect was modeled through an Actor Partner Interdependence Model. For both partners, dyadic adjustment’s actor-effect associates with body-image avoidance. Moreover, psychological symptoms’ actor-effect associate to body-image avoidance, resulting significantly more influential than the partner-effect. Only for males, alexithymia’s actor-effect was significant. To conclude, partners’ functioning is quite specular yet not interdependent, as they do not show a couple-as-a-unit modality of functioning. Clinical implications are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Salcuni
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Elisa Mancinelli
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Anna Muneratti
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Alessi
- Dipartimento Strutturale Aziendale Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Unità Operativa Complessa (UOC) Ostetricia e Ginecologia, Padova Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Livio Finos
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Andrei F, Salvatori P, Cipriani L, Damiano G, Dirodi M, Trombini E, Rossi N, Porcu E. Self-efficacy, coping strategies and quality of life in women and men requiring assisted reproductive technology treatments for anatomical or non-anatomical infertility. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2021; 264:241-246. [PMID: 34340094 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2021.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the magnitude and the predictors of emotional reactions to an infertility diagnosis, comparing women and men who were clinically diagnosed with an anatomical cause of infertility or non-anatomical cause of infertility. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study involving a total of 133 adults waiting for infertility treatment at the IVF and Infertility Unit of the S. Orsola University Hospital in Bologna (Italy). Of these, 107 patients (55 with anatomical causes of infertility and 52 with non-anatomical causes of infertility; response rate: 80%) took part to the study. After providing informed written consent, each participant was asked to complete the Infertility Self-efficacy Scale, the Fertility Quality of Life, and the Brief Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced, which they returned at their second access to the Unit. Differences between the groups were analyzed through a series of univariate ANOVA, whereas a multiple regression analysis was used to jointly examine the predictors of fertility quality of life. RESULTS Results showed both gender related and diagnosis related differences. Women had statistically significant lower scores than men on the Infertility Self-Efficacy Scale and on the global, emotional, and mind-body subscales of the Fertility Quality of Life, while they scored significantly higher on the emotion focused and socially supported subscales of the Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced. Independently of gender, patients with non-anatomical causes of infertility scored poorly than patients with anatomical causes of infertility on the relational subscale of the Fertility Quality of Life and on the Avoidant scale of the Brief Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that higher levels of self-efficacy and a lower use of avoidant coping strategies predicted a more positive quality of life over and above gender and cause of infertility. CONCLUSION This study partly confirms data on gender differences in experiencing the psychological burden of infertility and adds some new information, particularly with respect to the prediction of quality of life indicators over and above infertility cause.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Andrei
- University of Bologna - Department of Psychology, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Paola Salvatori
- University of Bologna - Department of Psychology, Bologna, Italy
| | - Linda Cipriani
- Infertility and IVF Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Damiano
- Infertility and IVF Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Dirodi
- Infertility and IVF Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Trombini
- University of Bologna - Department of Psychology, Bologna, Italy
| | - Nicolino Rossi
- University of Bologna - Department of Psychology, Bologna, Italy
| | - Eleonora Porcu
- Infertility and IVF Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy; University of Bologna - DIMEC, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Warchol-Biedermann K. The Etiology of Infertility Affects Fertility Quality of Life of Males Undergoing Fertility Workup and Treatment. Am J Mens Health 2021; 15:1557988320982167. [PMID: 33834914 PMCID: PMC8040574 DOI: 10.1177/1557988320982167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This panel study explored the effects of male, female, mixed, or idiopathic factor of infertility on the fertility quality of life (FertiQoL) in involuntarily childless males undergoing fertility workup for the first time. A convenience sample of 255 married males (age range = 22–51 years, mean = 30.24 years), 254 (99.6%) of whom suffered from primary infertility were assessed (1) at the baseline, before their initial fertility evaluation (T1); (2) before their second andrological appointment, 2–3 months after diagnostic disclosure (T2); and (3) before subsequent treatment-related/ follow-up appointments (T3, T4). The timing of psychological assessment was strictly related to andrological appointments and routine medical procedures. Respondents completed Emotional, Mind–Body, Relational, and Social subscales of the Polish version of FertiQoL and a baseline demographic survey. The research demonstrated that the FertiQoL scores across the Emotional, Mind–Body, and Relational subscales markedly decreased after the diagnostic disclosure, particularly in the subgroups with male and concurrent male and female factor. Social subscale scores in all subgroups remained stable after the diagnostic disclosure (at T2) but significantly decreased in the follow-up (at T3 and T4). Significant differences in FertiQoL scores associated with respondents’ infertility factor could be demonstrated at each time point. The study identifies the FertiQoL in unintentionally childless males is significantly affected by their factor of infertility and evolves across the pathway of treatment-related/follow-up appointments.
Collapse
|
19
|
Paterlini M, Andrei F, Neri E, Trombini E, Santi S, Villani MT, Aguzzoli L, Agostini F. Maternal and Paternal Representations in Assisted Reproductive Technology and Spontaneous Conceiving Parents: A Longitudinal Study. Front Psychol 2021; 12:635630. [PMID: 33815221 PMCID: PMC8010127 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.635630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim of this study was to investigate whether parental mental representations during pregnancy and after delivery differed between parents who conceived after Assisted Reproductive Treatments (ART) and spontaneous conceiving (SC) parents. Effects of specific ART variables (previous ART attempts, treatment type and cause of infertility) were also taken into account. Seventeen ART couples and 25 SC couples were recruited at Santa Maria Nuova Hospital (Reggio Emilia, Italy). At both 32 weeks of gestation (T1) and 3 months postpartum (T2) participants completed the Semantic Differential of the IRMAG, a self-report tool which measures specific domains of mental representations pertaining either individual (Child, Self-as-woman/man, and Partner) or parental (Self-as-parent, Own parent) characteristics. Results showed that ART parents had significantly more positive representations of the child compared to SC parents, while the scores at Partner dimension improved from T1 to T2 for SC parents only. With regards to ART history, scores at the Self-as-woman/man dimension were significantly less positive for ICSI than IVF parents and improved substantially from T1 to T2 only in case of mothers with previous ART attempts and of fathers at the first ART cycle. The representation of own parents increased from T1 to T2 in case of infertility diagnosis due to male factors, while a decrease emerged when infertility was due to female factors. Findings suggest the need to investigate parental mental representations after ART, in order to improve the understanding on the transition to parenthood of infertile couples and to target more specific intervention for parenting support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Paterlini
- Department of Obstetrics and Pediatrics, AUSL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Andrei
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Erica Neri
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Trombini
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sara Santi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center, AUSL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Villani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center, AUSL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Aguzzoli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center, AUSL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zurlo MC, Cattaneo Della Volta MF, Vallone F. Re-examining the Role of Coping Strategies in the Associations Between Infertility-Related Stress Dimensions and State-Anxiety: Implications for Clinical Interventions With Infertile Couples. Front Psychol 2020; 11:614887. [PMID: 33414752 PMCID: PMC7782436 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.614887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Research has shown a direct relationship between infertility-related stress and anxiety in infertile patients. The present study goes into this relationship in depth, testing the moderating role of coping strategies (Seeking Social Support, Avoidant, Positive Attitude, Problem-Solving, Turning to Religion) in the associations between specific infertility-related stress dimensions (Social Concern, Need for Parenthood, Rejection of Childfree Lifestyle, Couple’s Relationship Concern) and State-Anxiety among male and female partners of infertile couples. Gender differences were also explored. Both members of 254 infertile couples completed a questionnaire consisting of Socio-demographics, Fertility Problem Inventory–Short Form (FPI-SF), Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced–New Italian Version (COPE-NIV), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-Y (STAI-Y). The results revealed that Social Concern and Couple’s Relationship Concern, in both partners, and Need for Parenthood, in female partners, had positive correlations with State-Anxiety. Seeking Social Support and Avoidant coping were related to increasing levels of State-Anxiety in both partners, whereas Positive Attitude coping strategies were related to lower levels of State-Anxiety in female partners. Problem-Solving and Avoidant coping played moderating roles between specific infertility-related stress dimensions and State-Anxiety in unexpected directions. Problem-Solving exacerbated the negative effects of Social Concern, whereas Avoidant coping buffered the negative effects of several infertility-related stress dimensions in both partners. Interventions to improve stress management and psychological health in infertile couples should consider that the adequacy of coping strategies is inherently situation specific. It therefore follows that patient-centered clinical interventions should consider the potential inadequacy of promoting Problem-Solving strategies, and that even Avoidance can be an efficient strategy for dealing with specific infertility-related stress dimensions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Clelia Zurlo
- Dynamic Psychology Laboratory, Department of Political Science, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Cattaneo Della Volta
- Dynamic Psychology Laboratory, Department of Political Science, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Vallone
- Dynamic Psychology Laboratory, Department of Political Science, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Molgora S, Baldini MP, Tamanza G, Somigliana E, Saita E. Individual and Relational Well-Being at the Start of an ART Treatment: A Focus on Partners' Gender Differences. Front Psychol 2020; 11:2027. [PMID: 33117204 PMCID: PMC7549400 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility and ART treatments represent stressful experiences for the couples, impacting on the overall psychological well-being of partners as well as on their couple adjustment. Several variables were analyzed as risk factors for infertility-related distress. The impact of these experiences has been well-documented in both women and men, reporting important gender differences. The aim of this study was to assess gender differences in individual and relational well-being in infertile couples. Gender differences for psychological and medical variables predicting psychological distress were investigated. Two hundred and thirty couples who entered an ART program at a public hospital in Milan were recruited. Each partner completed the following scales: ScreenIVF, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and Experience in Close Relationship Questionnaire. Findings revealed several gender differences with women reporting higher levels of both anxiety and depressive symptoms, anxiety and avoidance attachment, and helplessness, but lower levels of acceptance than men. Differences emerged also in factors predicting well-being: poor support predicted anxiety in men and depression in women. Furthermore, individual well-being was predicted only for men by attachment anxiety and previous treatment. Finally, in the women subsample, couple's adjustment was predicted by anxiety attachment, while in men predictors were helplessness and type of diagnosis. These results suggest the importance of implementing support interventions for couples which take into consideration the specific needs and fragility of each partner as well as focusing on enhancing a sense of partnership.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Molgora
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Baldini
- IRCCS Ca’Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Emanuela Saita
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Courbiere B, Lacan A, Grynberg M, Grelat A, Rio V, Arbo E, Solignac C. Psychosocial and professional burden of Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR): Results from a French survey. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238945. [PMID: 32970695 PMCID: PMC7514013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of infertility and Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR) throughout all aspects of life among infertile women and men. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online survey included 1 045 French patients (355 men, 690 women) who were living or had lived the experience of infertility and MAR. The questionnaire included 56 questions on several domains: global feelings, treatment burden, rapport with medical staff, psychosocial impact, sexual life and professional consequences. RESULTS Respondents had experienced an average of 3.6 (95% CI: 3.3-3.9) MAR cycles: 5% (n = 46) were pregnant, 4% (n = 47) were waiting to start MAR, 50% (n = 522) succeeded in having a live birth following MAR, 19% (n = 199) were currently undergoing ART, and 21% (n = 221) dropped out of the MAR process without a live birth. Satisfaction rates regarding the received medical care were above 80%, but 42% of patients pointed out the lack of information about non-medical support. An important impact on sexual life was reported, with 21% of patients admitted having not had intercourse for several weeks or even several months. Concerning the impact on professional life, 63% of active workers currently in an MAR program (n = 185) considered that MAR had strong repercussions on the organization of their working life with 49% of them reporting a negative impact on the quality of their work, and 46% of them reporting the necessity to lie about missing work during their treatment. CONCLUSION Despite a high overall level of satisfaction regarding medical care, the burden of infertility and MAR on quality of life is strong, especially on sexuality and professional organization. Clinical staff should be encouraged to develop non-medical support for all patients at any stage of infertility treatment. Enterprises should be warned about the professional impact of infertility and MAR to help their employees reconcile personal and professional life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Blandine Courbiere
- Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants–Centre Clinico-Biologique d’AMP, AP-HM La Conception, Marseille, France
- CNRS, IRD, Aix Marseille Univ, Avignon Université, IMBE, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Arnaud Lacan
- Kedge Business School, AMSE, CNRS, EHESS, UMR 7316, Marseille, France
| | - Michael Grynberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Fertility Preservation, Hôpital Antoine Beclère, Clamart, France
| | - Anne Grelat
- Centre Mistral, Clinique Pasteur, Guilherand-Granges, France
| | - Virginie Rio
- Collectif bAMP, Association de patients de l’AMP et de personnes infertiles, Quincy sous Sénart, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Stellenwert psychotherapeutischer Betreuung im Rahmen der Subfertilitätsbehandlung. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-020-00323-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
24
|
Gaitzsch H, Benard J, Hugon-Rodin J, Benzakour L, Streuli I. The effect of mind-body interventions on psychological and pregnancy outcomes in infertile women: a systematic review. Arch Womens Ment Health 2020; 23:479-491. [PMID: 31897607 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-019-01009-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Preliminary evidence suggests that mind-body interventions, including mindfulness-based interventions and yoga, may be effective in reducing mental health difficulties and psychological distress in infertile patients undergoing fertility treatments. We systematically reviewed and synthesized current medical literature of the effectiveness of mind-body interventions in reducing the severity of psychological distress and improving marital function and pregnancy outcomes in infertile women/couple. Databases including PsychINFO, PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies. Manual searches were conducted in relevant articles. We included 12 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Four studies were randomized controlled trials (RCT), 4 non-randomized controlled trial (NRCT), and 4 uncontrolled studies (UCT). Participation in a mind-body intervention was associated with reduced anxiety trait and depression scores. The reduction was of low or moderate amplitude in most studies. Our review offers evidence for the effectiveness of mind-body interventions in reducing anxiety state and depression in infertile women and a possible improvement in pregnancy rate. Further RCTs with a precise timing of intervention are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Gaitzsch
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Department for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva and the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Geneva, 30 boulevard de la Cluse, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julie Benard
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Department for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva and the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Geneva, 30 boulevard de la Cluse, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Lamyae Benzakour
- Division for Liaison Psychiatry and Crisis Intervention, Department of Mental Health, University Hospitals of Geneva, 30 boulevard de la Cluse, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Isabelle Streuli
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Department for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva and the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Geneva, 30 boulevard de la Cluse, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Hélène Gaitzsch Medical Resident Unit for Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Department for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, 30 boulevard de la Cluse, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Asazawa K, Jitsuzaki M, Mori A, Ichikawa T, Shinozaki K. Effectiveness of a Spousal Support Program in Improving the Quality of Life of Male Patients Undergoing Infertility Treatment: A Pilot Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY BASED NURSING AND MIDWIFERY 2020; 8:23-33. [PMID: 32039277 PMCID: PMC6969952 DOI: 10.30476/ijcbnm.2019.81329.0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: There are various causes of male infertility. Infertile men usually have a low quality of life (QoL) and a high level of stress compared with men without infertility problems. The present study aimed to examine the effects of a spousal support program to enhance the QoL of male patients undergoing infertility treatment Methods: The present quasi-experimental study (pretest-posttest) was conducted among 38 infertile couples in Tokyo (Japan) during April-August 2018. The levels of QoL, distress,
and spousal support were measured using self-administered valid and reliable questionnaires. The paired t test was used to analyze pre- and post-intervention data with SPSS software (version 23.0).
P<0.05 was considered statistically significant Results: There were significant differences between the pre-test and post-test scores for the relational and emotional sub-scales of QoL. The paired t test results showed that the post-test emotional sub-scale (66.9±16.9) was significantly higher than the pre-test emotional sub-scale (58.5±13.5; t (30)=2.2, P=0.04). Similarly, the post-test relational sub-scale (71.2±21.6) was significantly higher than its pre-test score (60.8±13.7; t (30)=2.3, P=0.03). The majority of the participants 23 (74.2%) expressed satisfaction with the program. Conclusion: The spousal support program was well-received and significantly improved part of the QoL of men who were infertile due to various causes
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyoko Asazawa
- Faculty of Nursing, Tokyo Healthcare University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mina Jitsuzaki
- Department of Nursing, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Akiko Mori
- Women’s Health and Midwifery, Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke’s International University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Katsuko Shinozaki
- Graduate School of Health and Welfare Science, International University of Health and Welfare, Fukuoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Volpini L, Mazza C, Mallia L, Guglielmino N, Rossi Berluti F, Fernandes M, Violani C. Psychometric properties of the FertiQoL questionnaire in Italian infertile women in different stages of treatment. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2019; 38:324-339. [PMID: 31820662 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2019.1698017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reliable Fertility-specific QoL measures can be obtained through the FertiQoL, a questionnaire with six-subscales that consider different core aspects of the person's wellbeing and way of behaving during treatment. OBJECTIVE Examine the psychometric properties of all six-subscales of the Italian FertiQoL in a sample of infertile women and explore the effects of the ART treatment phases. METHOD 323 women, in three different treatment stages (Diagnostic, Stimulation, Transfer), completed the FertiQoL. Raw data were subject to Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and a structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to validate the hypothesised model. RESULTS CFA shows a good fit of the data to the FertiQoL hierarchical model (chi-square/df = 1.989, CFI = 0.88, RMSEA = 0.055). After the deletion of 2 items, all FertiQoL scales have good internal consistency. SEM showed that the ART treatment phase was positively associated with fertility-related QoL scores both in the Relational (β = 0.14, p < 0.05) and in the Tolerability (β = 0.17, p < 0.05) subscales. CONCLUSION All scales of the Italian FertiQoL version maintain good psychometric characteristics; Tolerability and Relational subscales are sensitive to the treatment stage and thus providing relevant information for the medical staff.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Volpini
- Department of Psychology, "Sapienza" University of Rome , Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Mazza
- Department of Psychology, "Sapienza" University of Rome , Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Mallia
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, "Foro Italico" University of Rome , Rome, Italy
| | - Nino Guglielmino
- U.M.R. Centre - Hera, Reproductive Medicine Unity , Catania, Italy
| | | | - Mariana Fernandes
- Department of Psychology, "Sapienza" University of Rome , Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiano Violani
- Department of Psychology, "Sapienza" University of Rome , Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Hou T, Zheng Q, Feng X, Liu Y, Wang L, Li Y. Efficacy and safety of moxibustion in female infertility patients undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer: A systematic review protocol. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e17560. [PMID: 31689760 PMCID: PMC6946314 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000017560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of moxibustion in infertility females/women undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will electronically search PubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biomedical Literature Database, China Science Journal Database, and Wan-fang Database from their inception. Also, we will manually retrieve other resources, including reference lists of identified publications, conference articles, and grey literature. The clinical randomized controlled trials or quasi-randomized controlled trials related to moxibustion in female infertility patients undergoing IVF-ET will be included in the study. The language is limited to Chinese and English. Research selection, data extraction, and research quality assessment will be independently completed by 2 researchers. Data were synthesized by using a fixed effect model or random effect model depend on the heterogeneity test. The clinical total effective rate and the clinical pregnancy rate will be the primary outcomes. Ovulation rate, endometrial thickness, hormone level, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Syndrome Integral Scale and the adverse event will also be assessed as secondary outcomes. RevMan V.5.3 statistical software will be used for meta-analysis, and the level of evidence will be assessed by Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). Continuous data will be expressed in the form of weighted mean difference or standardized mean difference with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), while dichotomous data will be expressed in the form of relative risk with 95% CIs. RESULTS This study will provide a high-quality comprehensive evaluation of the efficacy and safety of moxibustion in the treatment of female infertility patients undergoing IVF-ET. CONCLUSION This review will provide evidence to judge for judging whether moxibustion is effective in treating female infertility patients undergoing IVF-ET. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO, CRD42019135593.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ying Liu
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School
| | - Lu Wang
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School
| | - Ying Li
- Graduate School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinniu District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Molgora S, Fenaroli V, Acquati C, De Donno A, Baldini MP, Saita E. Examining the Role of Dyadic Coping on the Marital Adjustment of Couples Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). Front Psychol 2019; 10:415. [PMID: 30906270 PMCID: PMC6418016 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A couple is considered to be infertile if unable to conceive after 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse. An extended body of literature supports that infertility and infertility treatments contribute to emotional, social, sexual, and relational issues that can have a negative impact on each partner's well-being and on the couple relationship. Recent findings suggest that a dyadic approach should be used when working with couples coping with these stressors. However, most research to date has focused on the association between infertility and individual's psychological outcomes, rather than on the experience of infertility-related stress and coping from a relational perspective. Consequently, assuming that infertility is a dyadic stressor and that the ability of the partners to cope with this experience is the result of both individual and relational coping strategies, this study aimed to investigate dyadic coping and marital adjustment among couples at the beginning of an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) treatment. A sample of 167 heterosexual couples (N = 334) undergoing ART treatment at the fertility clinic of a large hospital in Milan from January to December 2017 was recruited. Each participant completed self-reported questionnaires examining marital adjustment (Dyadic Adjustment Scale) and dyadic coping (Dyadic Coping Questionnaire). Demographics and clinical variables were also collected. Data were analyzed using the Actor Partner Interdependence Model (APIM), testing the effect of each partner's dyadic coping style on their own and their partner's marital adjustment. Results revealed that both women and partners' scores on positive dyadic coping styles (common, emotion-focused, problem-focused, and delegated dyadic coping) contributed to higher marital adjustment. This result suggests that couples unable to engage in this type of reciprocal supportive behaviors and those unsatisfied with their coping efforts may be more vulnerable while undergoing ART treatments. Furthermore, findings highlighted some gender differences for stress communication and negative dyadic coping suggesting the presence of specific dynamics within couples facing an ART treatment. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Molgora
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Sacred Hearth, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Fenaroli
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Sacred Hearth, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Acquati
- Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Arianna De Donno
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Sacred Hearth, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Baldini
- IRCCS Ca 'Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Saita
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Sacred Hearth, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Palomba S, Daolio J, Romeo S, Battaglia FA, Marci R, La Sala GB. Lifestyle and fertility: the influence of stress and quality of life on female fertility. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:113. [PMID: 30501641 PMCID: PMC6275085 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0434-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence that lifestyle choices account for the overall quality of health and life (QoL) reflecting many potential lifestyle risks widely associated with alterations of the reproductive function up to the infertility. This review aims to summarize in a critical fashion the current knowledge about the potential effects of stress and QoL on female reproductive function. A specific literature search up to August 2017 was performed in IBSS, SocINDEX, Institute for Scientific Information, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Current review highlights a close relationship in women between stress, QoL and reproductive function, that this association is more likely reported in infertile rather than fertile women, and that a vicious circle makes them to have supported each other. However, a precise cause-effect relationship is still difficult to demonstrate due to conflicting results and the lack of objective measures/instruments of evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Palomba
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano “Bianco – Melacrino - Morelli”, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Jessica Daolio
- Center of Reproductive Medicine “P. Bertocchi” Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale – IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Sara Romeo
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano “Bianco – Melacrino - Morelli”, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Francesco Antonino Battaglia
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano “Bianco – Melacrino - Morelli”, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Roberto Marci
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Battista La Sala
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova (ASMN) - Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Reggio Emilia, Italy
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Maroufizadeh S, Hosseini M, Rahimi Foroushani A, Omani-Samani R, Amini P. The effect of depression on quality of life in infertile couples: an actor-partner interdependence model approach. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2018; 16:73. [PMID: 29690877 PMCID: PMC5937824 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-018-0904-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility can cause psychological distress and has a negative impact on quality of life (QoL). There have been no studies investigating the effect of depression on QoL in infertile couples at the dyadic level. This study aimed to investigate the effects of actors’ and partners’ depression on QoL in male-female dyads experiencing infertility using an innovative dyadic analysis approach, the Actor–Partner Interdependence Model (APIM). Methods We conducted this cross-sectional study on 180 infertile couples in Tehran, Iran, during August-September 2017. Quality of life and depression were assessed using Fertility Quality of Life and Patient Health Questionnaire-9, respectively. Dyadic data were analyzed by the APIM approach. In this method, actor effect is the impact of a person’s depression on his/her own QoL. Partner effect is the impact of a person’s depression on his/her partner’s QoL. Results Results from APIM revealed that both males and females’ depression exuded an actor effect on their own QoL (β = − 0.589, p < 0.001; β = − 0.588, p < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, males’ depression exuded a significant partner effect on their wives’ QoL (β = − 0.128, p = 0.030). Although the partner effect of females’ depression on males’ QoL was not statistically significant (β = − 0.108, P = 0.070), males whose wives had higher depression were more to indicate their own QoL was poorer. Based on equality constraint test, both actor and partner effects of depression on QoL were similar between males and females. Conclusions The findings suggest that QoL in infertile patients was influenced by not only their own depression but also their spouses’ depression; therefore, interventions to improve QoL should include both males and females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saman Maroufizadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Hosseini
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Abbas Rahimi Foroushani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Omani-Samani
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Payam Amini
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|