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Song G, Liu H, Zhang Z, Liu N, Jiang S, Du J. Exploring depressive symptoms and coping strategies in Chinese women facing infertility: A cross-sectional observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e39069. [PMID: 39058823 PMCID: PMC11272266 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000039069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility can lead to significant psychological distress among women, yet the roles of hope and resilience in mitigating depressive symptoms remain inadequately explored, particularly within the Chinese context. We performed a cross-sectional observational study to investigate the psychological impacts of infertility among Chinese women as well as to discern whether hope and resilience can influence their depressive symptoms. We recruited 364 Chinese women seeking infertility treatment in the Shandong region. Participants completed validated assessments including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and Herth Hope Index. Demographic and clinical data were also collected. We observed elevated levels of depressive symptoms and anxiety among women with infertility. Particularly, demographic factors such as an older age, rural residence, lower income, lower education, adverse life events, and longer infertility duration were associated with increased depressive symptoms. Individuals who experienced adverse life events were at a 2.42-fold increased risk of developing depressive symptoms (P = .04). Depressive symptoms were inversely correlated with both hope levels (r = -0.25; P < .05) and resilience levels (r = -0.32; P < .05). Hope levels were positively correlated with resilience (R = 0.67; P < .05). After controlling for the interaction of hope and resilience, we found that only depressive symptoms and resilience were negatively correlated. The psychological burden of infertility among Chinese women is widespread and affects many individuals from different demographic backgrounds. Interventions aimed at increasing resilience may be helpful to mitigate depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guihong Song
- Department of Medicine, Shandong College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, China
| | - Haiyun Liu
- Department of Medicine, Shandong College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, China
| | - Zhirong Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Yantai Muping Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, China
| | - Nannan Liu
- Department of Medicine, Shandong College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, China
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Jing Du
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Liaocheng People’s Hospital, Liaocheng, China
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2
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Sahraian K, Abdollahpour Ranjbar H, Namavar Jahromi B, Cheung HN, Ciarrochi J, Habibi Asgarabad M. Effectiveness of mindful self-compassion therapy on psychopathology symptoms, psychological distress and life expectancy in infertile women treated with in vitro fertilization: a two-arm double-blind parallel randomized controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:174. [PMID: 38429659 PMCID: PMC10908010 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05411-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Infertility is a prominent problem affecting millions of couples worldwide. Recently, there has been a hightened emphasis on elucidating the subtle linkages between infertility treatment leveraging assisted reproductive technology and the complex realm of psychological challenges, as well as efforts in implementation of psychological interventions.The Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program seeks to improve self-compassion, compassion for others, mindfulness, and life satisfaction while reducing depression, anxiety, and stress. In the current study, an MSC intervention was performed on infertile women (IW) undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) to assess the effectiveness of this intervention in reducing psychological distress and psychopathological symptoms and enhancing life expectancy. METHODS Fifty-seven IW undergoing IVF were randomly allocated to two groups: MSC (n = 29) or treatment as usual (TAU; n = 28). Participants in MSC met once a week for two hours for eight weeks and attended a half-day meditation retreat. The Synder's Hope questionnaire and the Revised 90-Symptom Checklist (SCL-90-R) were used as the primary outcome measures. Data were obtained before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and two months post-intervention. Repeated measures of ANCOVA and paired t-tests in all assessment points were used to compare the MSC and the TAU groups in outcomes. RESULTS In the MSC group, hopelessness, anger-hostility, anxiety, interpersonal sensitivity difficulties, and depression were significantly reduced compared with the TAU group, and those improvements persisted at the two-month follow-up. Reliable change index revealed that the MSC group's gains were both clinically significant and durable. CONCLUSIONS MSC can facilitate higher life satisfaction and mental well-being for IW undergoing IVF by reducing psychological distress, psychopathological symptoms, and hopelessness. These encouraging findings call for more research into the effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapies in addressing psychological problems among IW undergoing IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Sahraian
- Department of Psychology, Higher Education Center of Eghlid, Eghlid, Iran
- Infertility Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Bahia Namavar Jahromi
- Infertility Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Science, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ho Nam Cheung
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Joseph Ciarrochi
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mojtaba Habibi Asgarabad
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Dragvoll, Trondheim, Norway.
- Health Promotion Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Health Psychology, School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health (Tehran Institute of Psychiatry), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Li P, Langer M, Vilsmaier T, Kramer M, Sciuk F, Kolbinger B, Jakob A, Rogenhofer N, Dalla-Pozza R, Thaler C, Haas NA, Oberhoffer FS. Vascular Health of Females with History of Assisted Reproductive Technology. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2024; 11:66. [PMID: 38392280 PMCID: PMC10889395 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd11020066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) for the treatment of infertility is gaining popularity. Limited data on the overall vascular health of females with history of ART are available. This pilot study aimed to investigate the overall vascular health of females with history of ART compared to individuals who conceived spontaneously. The assessment of overall vascular health included the measurement of brachial blood pressure, central blood pressure, and pulse wave velocity, as well as the evaluation of the arterial stiffness and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) of the common carotid arteries. Conventional blood lipids including lipoprotein a (Lp(a)) were also determined. In total, 45 females with history of ART and 52 females who conceived spontaneously were included (mean age: 47.72 ± 5.96 years vs. 46.84 ± 7.43 years, p = 0.525). An initial comparison revealed a significantly higher prevalence of elevated Lp(a) in ART females (p = 0.011). However, after multiple comparison correction, the significant result disappeared (p = 0.132). Within the cohort of ART females, no significantly higher cardiovascular risk was detected regarding vascular function. The potentially higher prevalence of elevated Lp(a) in ART females must be further investigated in future studies, as it might contribute to the impaired reproductive process in this cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengzhu Li
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Magdalena Langer
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Theresa Vilsmaier
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Marie Kramer
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Franziska Sciuk
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Brenda Kolbinger
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - André Jakob
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Nina Rogenhofer
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Robert Dalla-Pozza
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Thaler
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Alexander Haas
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Felix Sebastian Oberhoffer
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
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Amiri-Farahani L, Shahbazi Sighaldeh S, Allahqoli L, Ranjbar F, Rouzafzoon M, Gharacheh M. Psychometric properties of Persian version of the infertile women's exposure to violence determination scale (IWEVDS). HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:927-935. [PMID: 34986755 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2021.2021592] [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: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
To identify violence among infertile women, a specific tool is needed. "Infertile Women's Exposure to Violence Determination Scale" (IWEVDS) is the only specific tool to assess violence against infertile women. The aim of this study was to determine psychometric properties of the Persian version of the IWEVDS. In this methodological study, content validity of the scale was determined following backward, forward translation. To assess the construct validity, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used through Partial Least Squares (PLS). To do so, the Persian version of the IWEVDS was administered to a continuous sample of 310 infertile women referred to a women's hospital in Tehran. The results of the CFA confirmed the model and demonstrated a good fit on the scale. The Goodness of Fit (GOF) index and the Standardised Root Mean Residual (SRMR) with values of 0.42 and 0.056, respectively, indicate the adequacy of the overall model. The reliability of the scale is confirmed by the acceptable values of Cronbach's alpha, composite reliability, communality coefficient and Spearman correlation coefficient. The values of Cronbach's alpha were 0.90 for domains domestic violence, 0.85 for social pressure, 0.86 for punishment, 0.7 for exposure to traditional practices, and 0.87 for exclusion. The results of the study revealed that the Persian version of the IWEVDS is a 28-item scale with good validity and reliability among Iranian infertile women. Therefore, healthcare professionals can use it to evaluate the infertile women's exposure to violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Amiri-Farahani
- Nursing Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Leila Allahqoli
- Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Ranjbar
- Nursing Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Rouzafzoon
- Reproductive Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Gharacheh
- Nursing Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Hwang SI, Yoon YJ, Sung SH, Cho SJ, Park JK. Acupuncture Treatment for Emotional Problems in Women with Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2704. [PMID: 37893778 PMCID: PMC10606758 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in treating emotional problems in women with infertility. We searched for randomized controlled trials using acupuncture treatment for emotional problems in women with infertility using 11 databases from their inception to 30 June 2023. The control intervention included no treatment, sham acupuncture treatment, and conventional treatment. The primary outcome was emotion-related rating scales, and the secondary outcomes were total effectiveness rate, quality of life, clinical pregnancy rate, and adverse events. Twelve randomized controlled trials involving 1930 participants were included. A meta-analysis of these studies indicated that, as compared to the control treatment, acupuncture significantly improved the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Self-rating Anxiety Scale, Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale, and Self-rating Depression Scale scores, which were the primary emotion-related outcomes. Furthermore, the meta-analysis demonstrated that acupuncture treatment had a significant effect on the clinical pregnancy rate, which was the secondary outcome. No adverse events were reported in any of the studies. Our findings demonstrate the potential of acupuncture for treating emotional problems in women with infertility. However, well-designed and high-quality randomized clinical trials are required to confirm the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture treatment. The protocol of the current study was registered in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42020166119).
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-In Hwang
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea;
| | - Young-Jin Yoon
- Department of Korean Medicine Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Korean Medicine Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pusan National University Korean Medicine Hospital, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Hyun Sung
- Department of Policy Development, National Institute of Korean Medicine Development, Seoul 04554, Republic of Korea;
| | - Su-Jin Cho
- Research Institute of Nursing Science, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jang-Kyung Park
- Department of Korean Medicine Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Korean Medicine Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pusan National University Korean Medicine Hospital, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea
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Hamzehgardeshi Z, Sabetghadam S, Pourasghar M, Khani S, Moosazadeh M, Malary M. Prevalence and predictors of sexual distress in married reproductive-age women: A cross-sectional study from Iran. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1513. [PMID: 37655267 PMCID: PMC10468024 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Although various surveys have been conducted for sexual problems, there is a lack of population-based studies on sexual distress in Iran. Thus, we sought to determine the prevalence and predictive factors of sexual distress in this population. Methods Overall, 1000 married women aged 16-49 years were enrolled in this study using the two-stage cluster sampling method. To identify sexual distress, the female sexual distress scale-revised (FSDS-R) was completed. The predictive factors were assessed using a checklist. Results A total of 318 women (31.8%) suffered from sexual distress. Among socio-demographic factors, satisfaction with marriage (p = 0.001), among personal factors history of infertility and fear of contracting sexually transmitted infections (p < 0.01), and among sexual and interpersonal factors satisfaction with the level of sexual desire (p = 0.01), pain during sexual intercourse (p < 0.01), premature ejaculation disorders in the partner (p < 0.05), and sexual satisfaction (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with sexual distress. Conclusion Clinicians should evaluate sexual distress comprehensively and consider all the related dimensions. The high overall prevalence of sexual distress, with or without an identifiable dysfunction, signals the importance of health professionals being adequately prepared to discuss sexual health concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Hamzehgardeshi
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Research CenterMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
- Department of Reproductive Health and MidwiferyMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
| | - Shadi Sabetghadam
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyGuilan University of Medical SciencesRashtIran
- Reproductive Health Research CenterGuilan University of Medical SciencesRashtIran
| | - Mehdi Pourasghar
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Addiction InstituteMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
| | - Soghra Khani
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Research CenterMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
- Department of Reproductive Health and MidwiferyMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
- Research Center of DiabetesMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
| | - Mahmood Moosazadeh
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Center, Non‐communicable Diseases InstituteMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
- Health Sciences Research CenterMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
| | - Mina Malary
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyShahroud University of Medical SciencesShahroudIran
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Saadedine M, Faubion SS, Kling JM, Kuhle C, Shufelt CL, Mara K, Enders F, Kapoor E. History of infertility and sexual dysfunction in midlife women: Is there a link? J Sex Med 2023; 20:1188-1194. [PMID: 37537692 PMCID: PMC10472170 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility has been linked with an increased risk of sexual dysfunction in reproductive-aged women, with longer periods of infertility associated with a greater risk. AIM The study's aim was to examine whether a history of infertility treatment in women is linked to sexual dysfunction during midlife. METHODS The cross-sectional study was conducted among sexually active women, between the ages of 45 and 65 years, who sought consultation at the women's health clinics at a US tertiary care center. History of infertility treatment was assessed with a single question that asked participants if they were treated for infertility in the past. The association between a history of infertility treatment and sexual dysfunction-which was diagnosed by a combination of Female Sexual Function Index score ≤26.55 and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised score ≥11-was assessed in a multivariable logistic regression model that adjusted for multiple confounders. OUTCOMES The primary outcome was sexual dysfunction in midlife women. RESULTS The analysis included 5912 women, with a mean age of 54.1 years. Nearly 16% of women reported receiving treatment for infertility. More than half the women (55%) had sexual dysfunction: 56.3% of those with previous fertility treatments and 54.4% of those without any fertility treatment (P = .3). Receiving treatment for infertility in the younger years did not significantly increase the odds of sexual dysfunction in midlife in univariate (odds ratio, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.94-1.24; P = .3) and multivariable analyses (odds ratio, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.96-1.29; P = .17). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS While infertility is known to be predictive of sexual dysfunction in women during their reproductive years, there was no association between a history of infertility treatment and sexual dysfunction in midlife women in the current study. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The study used validated questionnaires accounting for sexual complaints and distress and adjusted for multiple confounding factors. Limitations include the selection bias introduced by the study of women presenting for evaluation of sexual dysfunction, which may have been a result of factors stronger than the influence of infertility. Other limitations include the study's cross-sectional nature with suboptimal racial and ethnic representation. CONCLUSION Although infertility is commonly associated with female sexual dysfunction in women of reproductive age, the association was not present in midlife women in the current study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Saadedine
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, United States
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Stephanie S Faubion
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, United States
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Juliana M Kling
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Division of Women’s Health Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, 85259, United States
| | - Carol Kuhle
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Chrisandra L Shufelt
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, United States
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Kristin Mara
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Felicity Enders
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Ekta Kapoor
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Women’s Health Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
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Alam F, Shahid M, Riffat S, Zulkipli IN, Syed F, Ashraf M, Rehman R. SIRT1 and antioxidants in infertile females: Exploration of the role of vitamin D. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287727. [PMID: 37428803 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficiency of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) can trigger inflammation, mitochondrial malfunctioning, and apoptosis through the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, producing poor quality oocytes, leading to infertility. Normal vitamin D (VD) levels promote SIRT1 activity required for optimal fertility, and low levels of either may result in fertility problems owing to cell-membrane de-stabilization, increased autophagy, DNA damage leading to increased reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, in this study, we want to estimate the levels of VD, SIRT1 and antioxidants (MnSOD; manganese superoxide dismutase, GR; glutathione reductase, visfatin) and oxidants (adrenaline & cortisol) in individuals living with infertility and explore the association of VD with SIRT1 expression (levels), antioxidants, and oxidants contributing to infertility in women. The significance of this study is that it highlights the importance of maintaining optimal levels of VD for reproductive health in females. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 342 (135 infertile and 207 fertile) female subjects. Serum levels of MnSOD, SIRT1, visfatin, GR, VD, adrenaline, and cortisol were analyzed by ELISA and were compared in fertile and infertile samples using the Mann Whitney U test. RESULTS There were significantly high levels of VD, SIRT1, GR, MnSOD and visfatin in fertile female participants. However, mean adrenaline and cortisol levels were higher in infertile samples with a significant negative correlation with VD. A significant negative correlation of VD with MnSOD, SIRT1, visfatin and GR was observed (p <0.01). In VD subset groups, MnSOD levels were significantly high in VD sufficient groups however, adrenaline and cortisol levels were significantly high in groups suffering from VD deficiency. CONCLUSIONS Deficiency of VD is associated with a decrease in SIRT1 and other antioxidants, which may deter natural reproductive functions leading to infertility. Further studies are required to determine the cause-effect relationship of VD deficiency on conception and interpretation of the involved mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiza Alam
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Maheen Shahid
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Ihsan Nazurah Zulkipli
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Fatima Syed
- Fatima Syed, Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College-FRPMC, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mussarat Ashraf
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rehana Rehman
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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9
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Njogu A, Kaburu F, Njogu J, Barasa E, Mutisya A, Luo Y. The effect of self-compassion-based programs for infertility (SCPI) on anxiety and depression among women pursuing fertility treatment: a three-armed, randomised controlled trial. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:911-927. [PMID: 36930358 PMCID: PMC10224906 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02771-6] [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: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the effects of self-compassion training using videos (SCV) versus self-compassion training using digital stories (SC-DS) as compared to a control group (CG) on reducing anxiety and depression symptoms among women pursuing fertility treatment. METHODS A three-armed, randomised controlled trial randomly assigned 200 eligible women to SCV(n = 65), SC-DS (n = 67), and CG (n = 68). All three randomised groups completed questionnaires immediately after randomisation (T1), after completing the interventions (T2), and 10 weeks after the interventions (T3). A generalised estimation equation was used with the intention-to-treat analysis. The primary outcomes were anxiety and depression, and secondary outcomes were self-compassion, infertility self-efficacy, and pregnancy rates. RESULTS SCV and SC-DS participants experienced a significant reduction in anxiety and depression from T1 to T2 and from T1 to T3 (p < 0.001; d > 0.8). SCV and SC-DS participants experienced a significant increase in self-compassion and infertility self-efficacy from T1 to T2 and from T1 to T3 (p < 0.001; d > 0.8). SC-DS seemed to be superior to SCV and CG. No significant differences were found among the three groups in pregnancy rates. SCV and SC-DS participants rated self-compassion training programs positively and said they would highly recommend them to others. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that SCV and SC-DS were effective in reducing anxiety and depression and increasing self-compassion and infertility self-efficacy. Online flexible self-compassion interventions could make psychological support more accessible for women undergoing fertility treatment in resource-poor settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION (ChiCTR2100046065) [12/04/2021].
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Njogu
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Francis Kaburu
- Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Julius Njogu
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)/Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Emmanuel Barasa
- Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), Kakamega, Kenya
| | - Albanus Mutisya
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Juja, Kenya
| | - Yang Luo
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
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10
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Traffic Noise and Ambient Air Pollution Are Risk Factorsfor Preeclampsia. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11154552. [PMID: 35956166 PMCID: PMC9369709 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11154552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the effect of traffic-related noise (TRN), environmental noise (EN) and traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) on preeclampsia. Methods: We followed 285 pregnant women from Maternal and Child Health Clinics who reported exposure to TRN on a scale from 0 (absence of EN) to 10 (high level of EN). EN was measured using a portable dosimeter, and NOx was calculated using the AERMOD pollutant dispersion model. Results: Using a multiple logistic regression model, adjusted for maternal age, BMI, number of births, fetal sex and maternal chronic illness, TRN (score ≥ 6 vs. score < 6) and TRAP (NOx ≥ 300 µ/m3 vs. NOx < 300 µ/m3) were noted as independent risk factors for preeclampsia, with OR = 3.07 (95% CI 0.97; 9.70, p = 0.056) and OR = 3.43 (95% CI 1.20; 9.87, p = 0.022), respectively. Joint exposure to TRN and TRAP was associated with a significant and independent risk for preeclampsia (OR of 4.11 (95% CI 1.31; 12.94, p = 0.016). Conclusions: In our population, traffic-related noise and ambient TRAP were risk factors for preeclampsia.
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Perceived Partner's Self-Control and Social Support Effects on Relationship Satisfaction in Couples Experiencing Infertility or Miscarriage: Dyadic Analyses. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19041970. [PMID: 35206157 PMCID: PMC8872363 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19041970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The process that infertile couples and those after a miscarriage go through is unpredictable and difficult to control; therefore, it is associated with a lowered sense of control for both partners. Uncontrolled stress creates a higher level of anxiety, which is associated not only with a lower quality of life but also with worse results from infertility treatment and higher risks of miscarriage. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between the partner’s perceived self-control and marital satisfaction in the context of the partners’ coping strategies. The actor-partner interdependence model was applied to 90 heterosexual married couples. Our results show that men who perceive their wives as being more self-controlled and women who are perceived by their husbands as being more self-controlled feel more satisfied in their relationships. The effect of a partner’s perceived self-control on satisfaction with the relationship was weaker when controlled for the length of marriage. It also appeared to be moderated through the spouses’ use of social support. We conclude that the effects of the partner’s perceived self-control and social support are strong for marital satisfaction in the context of infertility and miscarriage.
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Tang N, Jia Y, Zhao Q, Liu H, Li J, Zhang H, Han L, Huangfu C. Influencing Factors of Dyadic Coping Among Infertile Women: A Path Analysis. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:830039. [PMID: 35418892 PMCID: PMC8995970 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.830039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The infertility prevalence of married couples in China is increasing gradually. The dyadic coping level and its influencing factors of infertile women in China are poorly reported. The relationship between dyadic coping and the family cohesion and adaptability in infertile women was investigated. METHODS A total of 482 infertile women in the reproductive clinics of three affiliated hospitals of the Lanzhou University were selected by the convenience sampling method. The self-made general information questionnaire, family adaptability and cohesion evaluation scale, and dyadic coping questionnaire were used in this study. RESULTS The average age of infertile women was 31.73 ± 4.57 years, the duration of infertility was 28.66 ± 27.99 months, the total score of dyadic coping was 132.66 ± 25.49, the total score of family cohesion and adaptability was 101.48 ± 20.96. A significant positive correlation between dyadic coping and family cohesion and adaptability was observed (r = 0.74, p < 0.01). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that religious belief, number of miscarriages, relationship between family members, family intimacy, and adaptability were the influencing factors of dyadic coping level in the family of infertile women (R 2 = 0.566, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The dyadic coping level of infertile women is in the medium level, which is significantly positively correlated with family intimacy and adaptability. In clinical nursing, nurses try to improve the family relationship of patients to increase the level of dyadic coping of infertile women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Tang
- Center for Evidence-Based Nursing, School of Nursing, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yingying Jia
- Center for Evidence-Based Nursing, School of Nursing, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qing Zhao
- Center for Evidence-Based Nursing, School of Nursing, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huihui Liu
- Center for Evidence-Based Nursing, School of Nursing, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Junzheng Li
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Western Theater Command, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hongchen Zhang
- Center for Evidence-Based Nursing, School of Nursing, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lin Han
- Center for Evidence-Based Nursing, School of Nursing, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chaoji Huangfu
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Western Theater Command, Lanzhou, China
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13
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Ahn J, Lee SH, Park MY, Oh SH, Lee W. The Association Between Long Working Hours and Infertility. Saf Health Work 2021; 12:517-521. [PMID: 34900371 PMCID: PMC8640650 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to investigate whether working long hours was related to infertility among female Korean workers, while taking age into consideration. Methods We used data from the 2018 National Survey on Fertility and Family Health and Welfare in Korea that is a cross-sectional, nationally representative, and population-based survey. Infertility was defined as women who were not pregnant after regular unprotected intercourse for a year. Working long hours was classified as ≥52 hours, and subgroups as per age were classified on the basis of being younger or older than 40 years of age. Differences in infertility risk between the long working hour group and none were estimated in crude and fully adjusted logistic regression models with age-group stratification. Results Of 5,909 Korean female workers, the crude and adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of infertility for working long hours were 1.295 (0.948–1.737) and 1.303 (0.921–1.809), respectively. In the subgroup of patients below 40 years of age, the crude and adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) were 1.957 (1.216–3.039) and 1.921 (1.144–3.120), whereas those aged 40 years or older had 0.994 (0.647–1.471) and 0.939 (0.560–1.501), respectively. The weighted prevalence of infertility increased as weekly working hours increased only for the younger than 40-year subgroup. Conclusions Infertility is associated with working long hours, especially in young-aged workers. Thus, the working schedule must be structured to better suit young female workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonho Ahn
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Ha Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Young Park
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Hyun Oh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wanhyung Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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Han J, Yang D, Liu Z, Tian L, Yan J, Li K, Fang Z, Chen Q, Lin B, Zhang W, Xi Z, Liu X. The damage effect of heat stress and psychological stress combined exposure on uterus in female rats. Life Sci 2021; 286:120053. [PMID: 34656555 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Explore the effects of heat stress and psychological stress combined exposure on the uterus and its underlying mechanisms. MAIN METHODS Sixty female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control group, psychological stress group, high ambient temperature group, and high ambient temperature combined with psychological stress group. All treatments were administered for two weeks. During this period, the estrous cycle, body weights and rectal temperature were measured regularly. Then, ovarian weight coefficient, serum estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) concentration, uterine histomorphological alterations, levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and the expressions of ovarian hormone receptors, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and its receptor, homeobox gene A10 (HoxA10), Wnt5a, Wnt7a, β-catenin, and P-β-cateninY142 in the uterus and endometrium were detected. KEY FINDINGS High temperature combined with psychological stress lead to body weight, body temperature, ovarian hormones and estrus cycle disorder, uterine gland ducts expansion and endometrial thickness reduction, and the decreased expression of endometrial receptivity markers (LIF and HoxA10). Further, disturbed expression of E2 and P receptors in endometrium, elevated MDA and TNF-α levels, and decreased Wnt5a, Wnt7a and P-β-cateninY142 content were found. Our data suggested that co-exposure to high temperature and psychological stress could aggravate uterine damage probably by inducing ovarian hormonal disorder and the subsequent oxidative stress and inflammation, and reduce the endometrial function through suppressing Wnt signaling. SIGNIFICANCE This will provide the scientific basis for improving female reproductive health, and preventing and treating reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Han
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China; Tianjin university of sport, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Danfeng Yang
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Ziyi Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China; Tianjin university of sport, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Lei Tian
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Kang Li
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Zhen Fang
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China; Binzhou Medical College, Yantai 264000, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China; Binzhou Medical College, Yantai 264000, China
| | - Bencheng Lin
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Zhuge Xi
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China.
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin 300050, China; Tianjin university of sport, Tianjin 301617, China.
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Li YQ, Shi Y, Xu C, Zhou H. Cognitive behavioural therapy improves pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:3000605211050798. [PMID: 34772315 PMCID: PMC8593307 DOI: 10.1177/03000605211050798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aim was to examine the effects of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) on the pregnancy outcomes of women receiving in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) treatment. METHODS A literature review was performed using the databases MEDLINE, the Cochrane Database, Embase, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and WANFANG. Eligible studies were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Relevant data were extracted and the quality of studies assessed. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were pooled to statistically analyse the difference between intervention and control groups. RESULTS Ten studies were selected for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The findings showed that CBT and cognitive-related therapy significantly improved the pregnancy rate of women undergoing IVF-ET treatment. Subgroup analysis showed that patients who received CBT, rather than complex psychological interventions, and those who received interventions delivered by professional psychologists, were more likely to become pregnant during IVF-ET treatment. CONCLUSION CBT and cognitive-related interventions had significant effects on the pregnancy outcomes of women receiving IVF-ET treatment. CBT treatment (rather than complex psychological interventions) provided by professional psychologists is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Qin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Suzhou Ninth People's Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yun Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Suzhou Ninth People's Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Urology, Suzhou Ninth People's Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Suzhou Ninth People's Hospital, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Koparal B, Gürlek B, Hocaoğlu Ç, Polat S. Levels of anxiety sensitivity, somatosensory amplification and alexithymia in patients with unexplained infertility. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14761. [PMID: 34455676 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to focus on the psychological aspect of unexplained infertility by comparing their psychological features to those of infertile patients with a known causes and fertile patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS Sixty unexplained infertility patients, 50 infertile patients with a known cause and 56 fertile patients were included in the study. Patients were evaluated using socio-demographic data form, Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), Somatosensory Amplification Scale (SAS) and Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI-3). RESULTS No significant differences in the levels of alexithymia, somatosensory amplification and anxiety sensitivity were detected between the groups (P > .05). When the correlation of clinical scale scores with each other was analysed in the whole group of infertile patients regardless of the cause, a weak positive correlation was found between anxiety sensitivity and difficulty in identifying feelings. CONCLUSION In our study, it has been found out that; regardless of the knowledge of the aetiology of infertility, the levels of alexithymia, somatosensory amplification and anxiety sensitivity of infertile cases did not differ from those of fertile women. However, it has been shown that as the difficulty in identifying emotions increases in infertile cases, anxiety sensitivity, which may cause psychological infertility, also increases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buket Koparal
- Department of Psychiatry, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University Training and Research Hospital, Rize, Turkey
| | - Beril Gürlek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University Training and Research Hospital, Rize, Turkey
| | - Çiçek Hocaoğlu
- Department of Psychiatry, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University Training and Research Hospital, Rize, Turkey
| | - Selim Polat
- Department of Psychiatry, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University Training and Research Hospital, Rize, Turkey
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17
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Yoldemir T, Yassa M, Atasayan K. Comparison of anxiety scores between unexplained primary and secondary infertile couples. Gynecol Endocrinol 2021; 37:1008-1013. [PMID: 34036863 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1929149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the anxiety levels among infertile women and their partners also factors that may affect the anxiety status. STUDY DESIGN A total of 403 infertile couples who applied to Infertility Outpatient Clinics of a University-affiliated Teaching and Research Hospital were included in the study. The infertile group was divided into two groups as primary and secondary infertile. One hundred and thirty-two fertile couples who applied to Gynecology Outpatient Clinics composed the control group. Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) form was filled by the infertile couples to evaluate the anxiety status before they started their treatment. RESULTS Three hundred and twenty infertile and 84 fertile couples completed the study. The mean total scores of HAM-A of women were similar between the groups. So were the scores of their husbands. In all groups, women had significantly higher mean total HAM-A scores than their husbands. There was no association between the mean HAM-A score of women and age, BMI, AFC, duration of marriage, duration of infertility, number of previous treatment cycles. Education status, working status and family structure of women did not correlate with the mean HAM-A score. CONCLUSION Unexplained primary and secondary infertile couples had similar anxiety scores before the commencement of fertility treatments. However, the scores were higher in women than their male partners. Since the burden of treatment and the likelihood of treatment failure might increase the level of anxiety the women could be offered proper cognitive coping and relaxation interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tevfik Yoldemir
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mahmut Yassa
- Diyarbakir Selahaddin Eyyubi State Hospital, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Kemal Atasayan
- Department of Medical Services and Techniques, Vocational School of Health Services, Bezmialem Vakıf Üniversitesi, Istanbul, Turkey
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18
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Chakraborty S, Roy PK. Interpersonal Therapy in Primary Infertility, Life-Cycle Transitions, and Dysthymia: A Single Case Study. Clin Case Stud 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/15346501211038275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is an evidence-based therapy, originally developed to treat major depression. IPT conceptualizes depression from a bio-psychosocial perspective where signs of depression are understood in the context of an individual’s current social and interpersonal stressors, defined in terms of role transitions, disputes, bereavements, and sensitivities. In this single case study, IPT was used to treat a woman undergoing primary infertility with multiple failed pregnancies and unsuccessful adoption procedures along with specific grief reactions and depressive symptoms for 2 years. The therapy was formulated over 12 weekly sessions in the outpatient set-up in a general hospital in Kolkata in 2017. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) was used to assess the efficacy of the therapy and its outcomes. The therapy was found to be effective in the patient and justifies the rationale of choosing the said therapy for the specific case from an interpersonal viewpoint. The case study may help suggest how and why to use interpersonal psychotherapy in infertility conditions with psychological ramifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sampurna Chakraborty
- Mount Carmel College, Banglore, India
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi, India
| | - Prasanta K. Roy
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Kolkata, India
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19
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Akintayo AA, Aduloju OP, Dada MU, Abiodun-Ojo OA, Oluwole LO, Ade-Ojo IP. Comparison of self-esteem and depression among fertile and infertile women in a low resource setting. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2021; 42:1198-1203. [PMID: 34379544 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2021.1945002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the effect of infertility on self-esteem and depression, and to identify the sociodemographic and infertility characteristics associated with self-esteem and depression among infertile women in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Self-esteem and depression were assessed in 100 infertile women and 100 women seeking family planning (controls) using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), respectively. Infertile women had significantly lower RSES score (19.4 ± 4.5 vs. 20.7 ± 4.4, p=.038) and higher PHQ-9 score (5.1 ± 4.1 vs. 3.8 ± 3.5, p=.023) compared to controls. Among infertile women, marital status, being remarried, duration of infertility, and RSES score were associated with PHQ-9 score on simple linear regression. On multiple linear regression analysis, the RSES score had a negative association with the PHQ-9 score (β= -0.32, p<.001). In conclusion, infertile women have lower self-esteem and higher depression scores. Mental health screening and management should be an integral part of care administered to infertile women.Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Infertility is a global health problem with negative effects on the mental health and quality of life of couples, especially women.What the results of this study add? Infertile women have lower self-esteem and higher depression scores. The prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) is higher among infertile women. Longer duration of infertility, older age, ≤6 years of formal education, and low self-esteem are significant associations of MDD among infertile women.What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Mental health screening and management should be included in the care given to women undergoing evaluation and treatment for infertility. Larger community-based studies evaluating other aspects of mental health among infertile couples are encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akinyemi A Akintayo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.,Department of Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Olusola P Aduloju
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Mobolaji U Dada
- Department of Psychiatry, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | | | - Lateef O Oluwole
- Department of Psychiatry, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Idowu P Ade-Ojo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
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20
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Bose S, Roy B, Umesh S. Marital Duration, and Fertility-Related Stress as Predictors of Quality of life: Gender Differences among Primary Infertile Couples. J Hum Reprod Sci 2021; 14:184-190. [PMID: 34316235 PMCID: PMC8279062 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_233_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Infertility is a global public health issue, and the current data suggest that the problem is growing. Various infertility-related issues are responsible for poorer mental health and well-being in couples with primary infertility. Aim The present study aimed to understand the gender differences of psychological factors related to infertility in couples with primary infertility. Furthermore, an attempt was also made to understand gender-specific associations that could interact with the fertility-related quality of life (FertiQoL). Settings and Design This cross-sectional hospital-based study included 100 married couples with the diagnosis of primary infertility, irrespective of the cause of infertility. The study was conducted at Infertility centers in the Eastern region of India. Subject and Methods One hundred men and women (n = 100 couples) with the diagnosis of primary infertility were recruited in the study. The fertility problem inventory and FertiQoL were used to measure the couples fertility-related stress and FertiQoL, respectively. Statistical Analysis Used Descriptive statistics, independent t-statistics, Pearson correlation, linear regression, and mediation analysis were conducted. Results A significantly higher social and sexual concern of infertility and "need for parenthood" were found in women. Men had a significantly better quality of life compared to women. Significant negative predictors of quality of life were noted for both men and women separately. Fertility stress was a significant mediating factor between marital duration and global FertiQoL in men. However, women showed a direct negative association between marital duration and FertiQoL. Conclusions The study provides important insights into the couple's experiences with various infertility problems that may potentially be addressed during psychotherapy or during infertility counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarnali Bose
- Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
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21
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Lee IO, Kim JC, Seo JW, Pak HY, Chung JE. Risk of developing major depressive disorder in polycystic ovary syndrome: a retrospective cohort study. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2021; 41:1157-1161. [PMID: 33645403 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2020.1849071] [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] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the risk of developing major depressive disorder (MDD) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). As a population-based retrospective cohort study based on the Korean National Health Insurance Claims Database and National Health Information Database, newly diagnosed 26,251 women with PCOS with age matched 131,480 women without PCOS from 2007 to 2010 were followed longitudinally and the subsequent occurrence of newly onset MDD was evaluated. The risk of developing MDD in women with PCOS after adjusting for various confounding variables was higher compared to women without PCOS (hazard ratio [HR]1.34, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.29-1.40, p<.0001). Stratified by the body mass index, the risk of being admitted to the hospital due to MDD was the highest in the overweight PCOS (HR 2.53, 95% CI 1.71-3.76, p<.0001). The risk of developing MDD was higher in women with PCOS compared to women without PCOS. Maintenance of the appropriate body weight should be emphasised as the hazard ratio of developing MDD was higher in overweight women with PCOS.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? PCOS is a multisystem disorder associated with various comorbidities including diabetes mellitus, infertility and endometrial cancer.What do the results of this study add? Women with PCOS showed a higher risk of developing MDD compared to age matched women without PCOS in this multivariate analysis after adjusting for body-mass-index, smoking habit, socio-economic status, residential area, blood glucose, and blood cholesterol. The risk of being admitted to hospital due to MDD was the highest in PCOS with BMI ≥ 25.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? PCOS should not be considered as a condition confined to ovulatory dysfunction and dermatologic problems, but the higher risk of developing MDD should be recognised. The importance of maintaining an appropriate BMI should be emphasised, as the risk of being admitted to the hospital due to MDD increased in overweight and obese women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Ok Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Jung Chul Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jong Wook Seo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Hae Yong Pak
- Department of Policy Research Affairs, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Jae Eun Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
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22
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Marom Haham L, Youngster M, Kuperman Shani A, Yee S, Ben-Kimhy R, Medina-Artom TR, Hourvitz A, Kedem A, Librach C. Suspension of fertility treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic: views, emotional reactions and psychological distress among women undergoing fertility treatment. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 42:849-858. [PMID: 33558171 PMCID: PMC7816616 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What are the views and emotional reactions of patients towards the suspension of fertility treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic, and what are the factors affecting their psychological distress? DESIGN A cross-sectional study conducted in an academic fertility centre. Online questionnaires were distributed between 18 April 2020 and 23 April 2020 to patients whose treatment cycle had been postponed or discontinued. The outcome measures included agreement with the reproductive society guidelines to postpone treatments; willingness to resume treatments, given the choice; patients' emotional reactions; and psychological distress level, measured by the Mental Health Inventory validated scale. A multivariate linear regression was conducted to identify factors associated with psychological distress. RESULTS Because of the small number of male respondents, only women were included in the analysis (n = 181). Forty-three per cent expressed disagreement with the guidelines and 82% were willing to resume treatments, given the choice. Sadness and anxiety were the most common emotional reactions expressed towards the guidelines. In the multivariate analysis, COVID-19-related anxiety (B = 0.145, P = 0.04) and disagreement with treatment suspension (B = -0.44, P = 0.001) were found to be significantly associated with patients' psychological distress. Background characteristics of patients did not contribute significantly to their distress. CONCLUSIONS Suspension of fertility treatment during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with patients' negative emotional reactions. Anxiety related to COVID-19 and disagreement with treatment suspension were found to be significantly associated with psychological distress among women undergoing fertility treatment, regardless of their background characteristics. Our findings suggest the need to monitor the mental health of patients and provide psychological support should a shutdown of fertility care re-occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilach Marom Haham
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michal Youngster
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Adi Kuperman Shani
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Reut Ben-Kimhy
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Meir (Sapir) Medical Center, Kfar-Saba, Israel; The Gender Studies Program, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Tamar R Medina-Artom
- Smokler Center for Health Policy Research, Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute Jerusalem, Israel; The Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel Hourvitz
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Alon Kedem
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Clifford Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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González R, Pericuesta E, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Sjunnesson YCB. Effect of an altered hormonal environment by blood plasma collected after adrenocorticotropic administration on embryo development and gene expression in porcine embryos. Theriogenology 2020; 162:15-21. [PMID: 33388725 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Early embryonic development may be affected by adrenal hyperactivity in stressful situations which may lead to endocrine changes in the embryo environment. A sensitive period in porcine embryo development is the 4-cell stage when the embryo genome activation occurs. A mixed in vivo-in vitro system was implemented to test whether an altered milieu around this stage could affect embryo development and blastocyst quality in the porcine model. After in vitro maturation and fertilisation, presumptive zygotes were exposed for 24 h to plasma collected after ovulation from adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-treated, non-ACTH-treated sows; and, medium without plasma, supplemented with bovine serum albumin. Subsequently, embryo development and differences in gene expression were tested among treatments. Cleavage and blastocyst rates did not differ between treatments. Blastocyst quality by morphology assessment was similar when all the resulting blastocysts were included in the analysis. However, when only expanded blastocysts (and onwards) were included in the analysis, the blastocysts from the non-ACTH plasma group showed better quality score. Blastocyst quality by morphological assessment was not mirrored by the transcription levels of various important genes for embryo development whose gene expression profile did not significantly differ among groups. It is likely that the effect of the altered environment provided by plasma from ACTH-treated sows was too short to affect embryo development. Therefore, a brief exposure to an altered endocrine environment may not have harmful consequences for the embryo once fertilisation occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel González
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Reproduction. the Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7054, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Eva Pericuesta
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra de La Coruña, Km 5.9, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra de La Coruña, Km 5.9, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ylva C B Sjunnesson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Reproduction. the Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7054, SE-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
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Perinatal outcomes and offspring long-term neuropsychiatric hospitalizations of mothers with anxiety disorder. Arch Womens Ment Health 2020; 23:681-688. [PMID: 31993742 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-020-01018-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Studies regarding the association between anxiety disorders and obstetrical and neonatal complications are inconclusive and sometimes contradictive. The aim of the present study was to assess perinatal outcome of mothers with anxiety disorder and to determine the association between maternal anxiety and long-term neuropsychiatric hospitalizations of the offspring. A hospital-based retrospective cohort study was conducted, comparing pregnancy complications and long-term neuropsychiatric hospitalizations of offspring of mothers with anxiety disorder, during or before the pregnancy and mothers without anxiety. All singleton deliveries between the years 1991 and 2014 in a tertiary medical center were included. To evaluate perinatal outcome of women with anxiety disorders, generalized estimation equation (GEE) models were used to control for confounders. A Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to compare cumulative incidence of long-term neuropsychiatric hospitalizations, and a Cox proportional hazards model was constructed to control for confounders. During the study period, 242,038 deliveries met the inclusion criteria, of them 0.1% (n = 304) were mothers with anxiety. Using GEE models, controlling for maternal age, maternal anxiety was noted as an independent risk factor for preterm delivery (adjusted OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.32-2.69; P < 0.001), hypertensive disorders (adjusted OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.08-2.69; P = 0.02) and cesarean delivery (adjusted OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.32-2.1; P < 0.001). Offspring born to mothers with anxiety disorders had higher rates of neuropsychiatric-related hospitalizations (6.3 vs 3.1% P = 0.002; Kaplan-Meier log-rank test P < 0.001). Using a Cox proportional hazards model, controlling for confounders such as maternal age, hypertensive disorders, gestational age, birth weight, and cesarean delivery, being born to a mother with anxiety disorders was found to be an independent risk factor for long-term neuropsychiatric hospitalizations of the offspring (adjusted HR 2.4, 95% CI 1.58-3.89; P < 0.001). Pregnancy of women with anxiety disorders is independently associated with adverse perinatal outcome and higher risk for long-term neuropsychiatric hospitalizations of the offspring.
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25
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Authier M, Normand C, Jego M, Gaborit B, Boubli L, Courbiere B. Qualitative study of self-reported experiences of infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome through on-line discussion forums. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2020; 81:487-492. [PMID: 32827451 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2020.07.1110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To highlight the self-reported experiences and disease perceptions of infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS A qualitative study using an inductive method was conducted on infertile women with PCOS who shared their self-reported experiences on French-speaking on-line forums. RESULTS 785 comments by 211 women on 7 forums were analyzed. Women complained of late diagnosis and lack of information regarding PCOS. PCOS and infertility showed negative psychological impact on daily life. This impact appeared to be alleviated by the sharing of knowledge and experience enabled by these forums. CONCLUSION The self-reported experience of infertile women with PCOS is interesting for health practitioners. The psychological impact of PCOS and perceptions of illness appear to be improved by sharing experiences between women with PCOS, suggesting a beneficial support role of online discussion forums.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magali Authier
- Département de médecine générale, faculté des sciences médicales et paramédicales - Timone, Aix-Marseille Université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille, France.
| | - Caroline Normand
- Département de médecine générale, faculté des sciences médicales et paramédicales - Timone, Aix-Marseille Université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Maëva Jego
- Département de médecine générale, faculté des sciences médicales et paramédicales - Timone, Aix-Marseille Université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Bénédicte Gaborit
- Département d'endocrinologie, diabète et maladies métaboliques, AP-HM, Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, INRA, C2VN, Marseille, France
| | - Léon Boubli
- Pôle femmes-parents-enfants, centre clinico-biologique d'AMP - CECOS, AP-HM Hôpital Nord/Hôpital La Conception, 147, boulevard Baille, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Blandine Courbiere
- Pôle femmes-parents-enfants, centre clinico-biologique d'AMP - CECOS, AP-HM Hôpital Nord/Hôpital La Conception, 147, boulevard Baille, 13005 Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, Avignon Université, Marseille, France
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Openness and Communication Effects on Relationship Satisfaction in Women Experiencing Infertility or Miscarriage: A Dyadic Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17165721. [PMID: 32784727 PMCID: PMC7459658 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17165721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Openness and communication between partners are key elements of dyadic coping with stress. Our main research question is: what is the impact of these factors on relational satisfaction in spouses struggling with infertility or miscarriage? In the current study, by applying the actor–partner interdependence model to 90 heterosexual couples (N = 180), we examined the link between the spouses’ openness (the Giessen Test), communication (Flexibility and Cohesion Evaluation Scales) and relationship satisfaction (the Marriage Success Scale). Controlling for relevant covariates (communication, own openness and type of stress experienced by the spouses: infertility or miscarriage), a dyadic analysis revealed significant actor (−0.24; p < 0.001) and partner effects (−0.20; p < 0.001). We conclude that the relationship between the perception of the partner’s openness and the relationship satisfaction in women is strong, in the context of the analyzed potential confounding variables. We also observe that the relationship satisfaction in women from the group of infertile spouses is 6.06 points lower compared to women from the group of marriages after miscarriage (p = 0.034).
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27
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GÜRBÜZ T, TANRIDAN OKÇU N, GÖKMEN O, ORHON E. The level of anxiety and depression in patients admitted to an infertility clinic. JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.32322/jhsm.698380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Wamser-Nanney R. Trauma exposure, PTSD and indices of fertility. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2020; 41:116-121. [PMID: 31131687 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2019.1619691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Trauma exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been linked with numerous adverse health conditions, but it is unclear if trauma exposure and PTSD are associated with infertility. The objective of this study was to examine the contributions of trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms in predicting length of time to conception and utilization of infertility testing and treatment.Participants: Two hundred and forty-six trauma-exposed females (Mage = 36.69, SD = 10.82, Range = 19-59; 62.2% white) who had either been pregnant or had tried to become pregnant were included in the study. Participants' level of trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms were examined in relation to length of time to conception and use of infertility testing and treatments.Result(s): Infertility was present in 16.7% of the sample, 12.4% of participants had seen a doctor regarding infertility and 9.9% of participants had undergone fertility testing or treatments. PTSD was significantly related to longer length of time to conception, use of infertility testing and treatment and number of infertility testing and treatments, after controlling for covariates. Cumulative trauma, defined as number of traumatic exposures, was marginally related to use of infertility testing and treatments, but not to length of time to conception or number of infertility testing and treatments. Neither cumulative trauma nor PTSD was associated with self-reported infertility diagnosis.Conclusion(s): PTSD, but not trauma exposure, may be a risk factor for reduced fecundity and increased use of infertility treatment and testing among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Wamser-Nanney
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri- St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Chen R, Fussell C, Austin JP, May SE, Wang Q. How Therapists Should Work with Infertile Couples: A Literature Review. JOURNAL OF COUPLE & RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/15332691.2020.1757545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ruoxi Chen
- College of Health Sciences, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - Cierra Fussell
- College of Health Sciences, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jason P. Austin
- College of Health Sciences, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - Stephen E. May
- College of Health Sciences, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - Qilin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Hosseini MS, Mousavi P, Hekmat K, Haghighyzadeh MH, Johari Fard R, Mohammad Jafari R. Effects of a short-term mindfulness-based stress reduction program on the quality of life of women with infertility: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Med 2020; 50:102403. [PMID: 32444057 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Although some programs based on mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) have been suggested to promote quality of life (QoL) in different conditions, limited studies have addressed their potential effects in women with infertility. In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of an MBSR program on the QoL of women with infertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 36 women with infertility, who were selected by consecutive sampling from the Infertility Center of Ahvaz Imam Khomeini Hospital, Iran. Women either participated in the MBSR program or received routine consultation in eight two-hour group sessions once a week. Women's QoL was measured using the 36-item short-form health survey before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention. The intention-to-treat analysis, with multiple imputation for missing data, was also performed. RESULTS The mean changes in the total score of QoL and its subscales (except for "social functioning" and "bodily pain") were significant compared to the baseline both at immediately after and one month after the intervention in favor of the experimental group (P<0.001 in most cases). Twenty four and six adverse events were recorded in the experimental and control groups, respectively. CONCLUSION Short-term MBSR program seem to be potentially effective in improving the QoL of women with infertility. Further studies are needed to determine the generalizability of our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Sadat Hosseini
- Student Research Committee, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Parvaneh Mousavi
- Reproductive Health Promotion Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Khadijeh Hekmat
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Reproductive Health Promotion Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | | | - Reza Johari Fard
- Department of Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz Branch, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Razieh Mohammad Jafari
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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Fernandes A, Skotnes LL, Major M, Falcão PF. Clinicians' Perceptions of Norwegian Women's Experiences of Infertility Diseases. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E993. [PMID: 32033324 PMCID: PMC7036994 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17030993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Norway has one of the best health systems in the world. However, it has a low birth rate, which decreased by 21.2% between 2009 and 2018, and one of the highest rates of infertility prevalence. The aim of this study is to understand how Norwegian doctors perceive female infertility diseases, namely those that are more difficult to diagnose and to treat, and that are more common in their practice. METHOD Descriptive qualitative study was conducted with gynecologists and general practitioners. The sample resulted from the establishment of five criteria and on the doctors' acceptance to participate in this study. Our sample comprised thirteen highly qualified and experienced doctors. Qualitative content analysis was the method chosen to analyze the collected data. RESULTS Clinical diseases (polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis and vulvodynia) and consequences of these diseases were the pinpointed themes. These led to a set of sub-themes: the main symptoms and the treatment of the diseases, from the perspective of both women and doctors (stigmatization, disturbances in women's daily life, diagnostic delay, and governmental support). CONCLUSIONS The three most relevant disorders mentioned were polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis and vulvodynia. These diseases cause several impacts on the lives of women, because they feel stigmatized and limited in their daily life and sexuality, and the diagnosis of these diseases takes too much time. Governments should better redistribute the financing of women's health and allocate resources to specialized centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Fernandes
- Business Research Unit (BRU-IUL), Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1649-026 Lisboa, Portugal; (L.-L.S.); (M.M.); (P.F.F.)
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Hwang JH, Kim YY, Im HB, Han D. Complementary and alternative medicine use among infertile women attending infertility specialty clinics in South Korea: does perceived severity matter? BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 19:301. [PMID: 31694617 PMCID: PMC6836421 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2727-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among infertile women is popular in many countries, including Korea. Previous research has repeatedly found more than half of infertile women surveyed use CAM therapies for fertility enhancement and overall well-being. However, there is currently little evidence to support this practice, and this raises the question of infertile women's experiences in the uptake of those modalities and sociodemographic and psychological factors associated with CAM use. Thus, this study aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of infertile women with regard to their use of CAM in Korea. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from 263 infertile women attending infertility specialty clinics in Seoul, Korea, in June 2012. The survey instrument included 47 questions on the use of CAM, demographic characteristics, health status, and infertility related factors such as duration and type of infertility, experience and satisfaction of conventional treatment, and self-perceived severity of infertility condition. Chi-square test and logistic regression were used for data analysis. RESULTS Among 286 respondents (response rate, 95.3%), a total of 263 women were included in the final analysis. 63.5% of respondents used one or more types of CAM modalities during infertility treatment. The utilization of CAM was associated with employment status, duration of infertility treatment, and self-perceived severity of the disease. The most commonly used CAM modalities were multivitamin and herbal medicine, and differences in types of CAM modalities used were found between the group with a higher rating of self-perceived disease severity and the lower perceived severity group. CONCLUSIONS High prevalence of CAM use among infertile women was observed in Korea. Our findings support that infertile women's own understanding of their illness and physical condition influences self-care behavior such as CAM use. This calls for an urgent need for further in-depth study of the clinical effects of popular CAM modalities among infertile women when used in conjunction with conventional treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Hye Hwang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Global Health and Development, Graduate school, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yi Young Kim
- Graduate School of Public Policy, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyea Bin Im
- Department of Global Health and Development, Graduate school, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dongwoon Han
- Department of Global Health and Development, Graduate school, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
- Institute of Health Services Management, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
- Graduate School of Public Policy, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763 South Korea
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Aisenberg Romano G, Fried Zaig I, Halevy A, Azem F, Amit A, Bloch M. Prophylactic SSRI treatment for women suffering from mood and anxiety symptoms undergoing in vitro fertilization-a prospective placebo-controlled study. Arch Womens Ment Health 2019; 22:503-510. [PMID: 30225529 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-018-0911-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To explore the mood protective effect of prophylactic SSRI treatment on women undergoing IVF suffering from moderate affective and anxiety symptoms. In a randomized double blind, placebo-controlled, parallel design study, 41 women diagnosed with an Adjustment Disorder, who were undergoing IVF treatments, were randomized into two groups; a study group (n = 22) administered escitalopram 10 mg/day, and a control group (n = 19) administered placebo for a total of 8 weeks before and during the IVF treatment cycle. Patients were assessed at the onset of drug treatment and at embryo transfer. The main outcome measure was the difference in mean score severity rating of depression and anxiety symptoms on the CES-D and Zung questionnaires between groups at the time of embryo transfer. Secondary outcome measures included the MHI rating subscales addressing aspects of psychological distress and coping. At the day of embryo transfer (6 weeks of drug treatment), the CES-D average score for the treatment group was 6.40 (6.71) and 27.47 (4.29) on the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, while the placebo group scored an average of 15.83 (8.69) and 33.17 (6.95) receptively. These findings were significant (p = .004, p = .015 receptively) and were endorsed by the scoring on the MHI questionnaire subscales. Short-term treatment with SSRI may serve as a prophylactic treatment against the perpetuation and possible worsening of depressive and anxiety symptoms in women undergoing IVF treatments. Further studies concerning pharmacological interventions in larger samples and studies addressing screening for psychological stress indicators in this population are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabi Aisenberg Romano
- Department of Psychiatry, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. .,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.
| | - Inbar Fried Zaig
- Department of Psychiatry, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Anat Halevy
- Department of Psychiatry, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Foad Azem
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.,IVF Unit, Lis Women's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Ami Amit
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.,IVF Unit, Lis Women's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Miki Bloch
- Department of Psychiatry, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
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Abstract
Stress plays an important role in reproductive health and likely is one of the psychological factors affecting ART success. This study was designed to examine the relationship between the stress level as inferred from the amount of the enzyme alpha-amylase secreted in saliva (SAA) and pregnancy outcome in infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transplantation (IVF-ET). A prospective cohort study was conducted in the Reproductive Medicine Centre of Zhengzhou University Hospital in Henan, China. Four hundred fifty-seven infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transplantation (IVF-ET) for the first time participated in the study. Couples collected saliva samples the morning before the start of their first treatment cycle for the measurement of SAA. We found that the level of SAA (and hence, the amount of stress) in female partners, male partners, and couples analyzed together significantly affected IVF-ET outcome. Cutoff levels of SAA that predicted pregnancy failure were 136 μmol/L, 149 μmol/L, and 288 μmol/L in female partners, male partners, and couples, respectively. Female partners, male partners, and couples with high SAA levels had increased risk of pregnancy failure compared to those with low SAA levels. The SAA level directly correlated with the follicle-stimulating hormone level and was inversely proportional to the anti-Müllerian hormone level and endometrial thickness. Some semen parameters of male partners, such as density, survival rate, sperm rapid progressive motility (A%), and progressive motility [(A + B)%], were significantly lower in the high-SAA than in the low-SAA group. Furthermore, couples in the high SAA group had fewer transferable and high-quality embryos. We concluded that a high SAA level, known to be an objective indicator of high stress, increases the risk of pregnancy failure in infertile couples undergoing IVF-ET. Lay summary To explore the relationship between stress, as measured by the levels of the stress biomarker salivary alpha-amylase (SAA), and pregnancy outcome in infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization, a prospective cohort study was conducted in the Reproductive Medicine Centre of Zhengzhou University Hospital in Henan, China. Four hundred fifty-seven infertile couples undergoing IVF-ET collected saliva samples the morning before the start of their first treatment cycle for the measurement of SAA. Results of this study demonstrated that a high SAA level, known to be an objective indicator of high stress, increases the risk of pregnancy failure in infertile couples undergoing IVF-ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Jing Zhou
- a Reproductive Medicine Centre , The First Affiliated Hospital of the Zhengzhou University , Zhengzhou , China
| | - Yan-Na Cai
- a Reproductive Medicine Centre , The First Affiliated Hospital of the Zhengzhou University , Zhengzhou , China
| | - Yue-Zhi Dong
- a Reproductive Medicine Centre , The First Affiliated Hospital of the Zhengzhou University , Zhengzhou , China
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Golmakani N, Ebrahimzadeh Zagami S, Esmaily H, Vatanchi A, Kabirian M. The relationship of the psychological coping and adjustment strategies of infertile women with the success of assisted reproductive technology. Int J Reprod Biomed 2019; 17. [PMID: 31435590 PMCID: PMC6693316 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v17i2.3989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The success of assisted reproductive techniques plays a very important role in the quality of life of infertile couples and decreases the negative behavior states of infertility. Objective This study aimed at determining the relationship between psychological coping and adjustment strategies with the success of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Materials and Methods This correlational study was conducted on 204 women visiting Milad Infertility Center in Mashhad during 2015-2016. The research instruments included Fertility Adjustment Scale and Infertility Coping Strategies Scale. The positive result of two pregnancy tests within 48 hours was considered as the success of ART. Results The mean and standard division score of adjustment in the group achieved treatment success (34.3±8.2) exceeded the group failed (33.6±8.8), the difference was not statistically significant (p= 0.381). Also, there was no significant difference between groups in the median and interquartile range of total coping strategies 81 (13) vs. 79.5 (12.25), (p= 0.369). Based on the logistic regression model for one increased transferred embryo, the chance of getting pregnant is 1.3 times, and for each unit increase in FSH level, the chance of ART success decreases 18%. Conclusion The results of this study showed that there is no relationship between psychological coping and adjustment strategies with ART success. However, the number of transferred fetus and tirthday FSH are introduced as factors that are related to the success of ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Golmakani
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Habibollah Esmaily
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Atiyeh Vatanchi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam Kabirian
- Student Research Committee,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Liker K, Black L, Weil J, Bruce J, Bereknyei Merrell S, Bivona S, Ormond KE. Challenges of infertility genetic counseling: Impact on counselors' personal and professional lives. J Genet Couns 2019; 28:626-640. [PMID: 30821877 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Infertility genetic counselors (GCs) work with patients struggling to become pregnant who desire genetic testing of embryos and preconception genetic testing or carrier screening. Because personal and professional challenges have not been examined in this relatively new genetic counseling specialty, we investigated the difficulties infertility GCs face in their professional roles. Past and present infertility GCs in patient-facing roles were recruited through the National Society of Genetic Counselors. Purposive sampling ensured participants were diverse in clinical setting, reproductive history, and other demographics. Nineteen participants completed a semi-structured interview, at which time data saturation occurred. Thematic analysis revealed infertility GCs consider their patients more emotionally stressed than patients in other specialties. Infertility GCs relate easily to patients, build long-term patient relationships, and feel invested in the reproductive successes of patients. Participants reported heightened concern for their own fertility, leading to high personal uptake of preconception genetic and fertility tests. Participants described discomfort when counseling while visibly pregnant and reluctance to disclose their own reproductive histories. Further research is needed on the complex interactions of GCs' personal and professional lives. Peer support groups and professional dialogue about the personal effects of the role may be beneficial for infertility GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Liker
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Lauri Black
- Pacific Reproductive Genetic Counseling, Pacifica, California
| | - Jon Weil
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University Stanislaus, Turlock, California
| | - Janine Bruce
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Sylvia Bereknyei Merrell
- Department of Surgery, Stanford-Surgery Policy Improvement Research and Education Center (S-SPIRE), Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Stephanie Bivona
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Kelly E Ormond
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Vaghar MI. An investigation into the effects of psychological consultation on the sense of satisfaction of the infertile women referring to the infertility centers of Tabriz. J Family Med Prim Care 2019; 8:1170-1175. [PMID: 31041269 PMCID: PMC6482776 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_16_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Infertility is a major crisis in life which causes mental stress. Studies have shown that infertility can negatively influence the sense of satisfaction. The effect of infertility on marital and sexual functioning, health related quality of life (QOL), and the acceptability of the treatment modalities is poorly researched area in Iran. The present study is aimed to investigate the effects of psychological consultation on the sense of satisfaction of the infertile women. Methods: In an experimental study, 90 women referred to the Alzahra Educational and Medical Center and Tabriz Madar Clinic were randomly divided into case and control groups. First, The Personal Information Questionnaire and the Temporal Satisfaction with Life Questionnaire were used to collect information about the samples. The samples of the case group received a 90-minute psychological consultation once a week for 8 weeks. Second, both groups completed the same questionnaires two weeks after the end of consultation sessions. Accordingly, the rate of life satisfaction in the past, present and future was compared, using T-Test, paired T-Test and Chi-Square Tests. Results: The results showed there was a significant difference between the case and control groups in terms of past, present and future life (P < 0.05). The rate of life satisfaction in the case group increased after the psychological consultation sessions. In other words, the behavioral, cognitive and emotional consultation can decrease the negative aspects of infertility. Conclusion: According to the results, an increase in the satisfaction of infertile women in the case group before and after psychological consultation in comparison with control group was significant. Moreover, psychological consultation increased the life satisfaction in infertile women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Islami Vaghar
- Department of Midwifery, Tehran Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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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.
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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
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van Elten TM, Karsten MDA, Geelen A, van Oers AM, van Poppel MNM, Groen H, Gemke RJBJ, Mol BW, Mutsaerts MAQ, Roseboom TJ, Hoek A. Effects of a preconception lifestyle intervention in obese infertile women on diet and physical activity; A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0206888. [PMID: 30403756 PMCID: PMC6221548 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lifestyle changes are notoriously difficult. Since women who intend to become pregnant are more susceptible to lifestyle advice, interventions during this time window might be more effective than interventions during any other period in life. We here report the effects of the first large preconception lifestyle intervention RCT on diet and physical activity in obese infertile women. METHODS In total, 577 women were randomized between a six-month lifestyle intervention program (intervention group; N = 290) or prompt infertility treatment (control group; N = 287). Self-reported dietary behaviors and physical activity were assessed at baseline, three, six and twelve months after randomization. Mixed models were used to analyze differences between groups. RESULTS Compared to the control group, the intervention group reduced their intake of sugary drinks at three months (-0.5 glasses/day [95% C.I. = -0.9;-0.2]), of savory snacks at three (-2.4 handful/week [-3.4;-1.4]) and at six months (-1.4 handful/week [-2.6;-0.2]), and of sweet snacks at three (-2.2 portion/week [-3.3;-1.0]) and twelve months after randomization (-1.9 portion/week [-3.5;-0.4]). Also, the intervention group was more moderate to vigorous physically active at three months after randomization compared to the control group (169.0 minutes/week [6.0; 332.1]). CONCLUSION Our study showed that obese infertile women who followed a six-month preconception lifestyle intervention program decreased their intake of high caloric snacks and beverages, and increased their physical activity. These changes in lifestyle may not only improve women's health but their offspring's health too.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa M. van Elten
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, VU University medical center, Department of Public and Occupational Health, de Boelelaan, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Meibergdreef, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meibergdreef, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Matty D. A. Karsten
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Meibergdreef, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meibergdreef, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Anouk Geelen
- Wageningen University & Research, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anne M. van Oers
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mireille N. M. van Poppel
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, VU University medical center, Department of Public and Occupational Health, de Boelelaan, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- University of Graz, Institute of Sport Science, Graz, Austria
| | - Henk Groen
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Epidemiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Reinoud J. B. J. Gemke
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, VU University medical center, Department of Public and Occupational Health, de Boelelaan, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Emma Childrens Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ben Willem Mol
- Monash University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Meike A. Q. Mutsaerts
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Tessa J. Roseboom
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Meibergdreef, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meibergdreef, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke Hoek
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Groningen, the Netherlands
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Sis Çelik A, Kırca N. Prevalence and risk factors for domestic violence against infertile women in a Turkish setting. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2018; 231:111-116. [PMID: 30342312 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objective was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors for domestic violence among women seeking infertility treatment at an IVF center. STUDY DESIGN This cross-sectional study was conducted with 423 infertile women who referred to the IVF Center in the southwest of Turkey between 1 January and 31 July 2016. The women were interviewed without their male partners by using the questionnaire and Infertile Women's Exposure to Violence Determination Scale. RESULTS A total of 306 participants (72%) declared having experienced domestic violence. It was found that 30% of the women exposed to violence stated that they were subject to physical violence, 6% to sexual violence, 62% to emotional violence, and 19% to economic violence. It was determined that the total mean score obtained by the women exposed to violence from Infertile Women's Exposure to Violence Determination Scale was 120.04 ± 12.69 and when it was evaluated based on the total mean scores to be obtained from the scale, level of violence experienced by the women was found to be severe. CONCLUSIONS The rate of exposure to violence was determined to be high in women included in the study. The most common type of domestic violence is psychological violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslı Sis Çelik
- Atatürk University, Nursing Faculty, Department of Birth, Women Health and Gynecology Nursing Erzurum, Turkey.
| | - Nurcan Kırca
- Akdeniz University, Nursing Faculty, Department of Birth, Women Health and Gynecology Nursing Antalya, Turkey.
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Omani-Samani R, Amini P, Navid B, Sepidarkish M, Maroufizadeh S, Almasi-Hashiani A. Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction among Infertile Women in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2018; 12:278-283. [PMID: 30291686 PMCID: PMC6186283 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2019.5395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Infertile women are at a higher risk of sexual dysfunction compared to fertile women. Infertility is a major source of stress, anxiety, and depression, which strongly affects sexual health. The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among infertile Iranian women. We searched the main international databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, and Scopus) and national databases (Scientific Information Database, Magiran, and IranMedex) from their inception until April, 2017. Due to heterogeneity between the studies, the extracted data were pooled using a random-effects model by Stata software. Out of 313 retrieved studies, we included 18 studies of 3419 infertile women in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of FSD was 64.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 53.3-75.3]. Our findings revealed that sexual desire (59.9%, 95% CI: 38.7-81.2) was the most prevalent disorder and vaginismus (19.2%, 95% CI: 11.3-27.2) was the least prevalent among infertile women. The results of our metaanalysis suggested that more than 64% of infertile Iranian women reported sexual dysfunction, which was meaningfully high. This study also showed that sexual desire was significantly more common than other sexual dysfunction dimensions and the prevalence of vaginismus was the least common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Omani-Samani
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Payam Amini
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnaz Navid
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Sepidarkish
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saman Maroufizadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Almasi-Hashiani
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Epidemiology Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran. Electronic Address:
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Biringer E, Kessler U, Howard LM, Pasupathy D, Mykletun A. Anxiety, depression and probability of live birth in a cohort of women with self-reported infertility in the HUNT 2 Study and Medical Birth Registry of Norway. J Psychosom Res 2018; 113:1-7. [PMID: 30190040 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The 'psychogenic' hypothesis has a long history in the field of infertility. The present study investigated whether anxiety or depressive symptoms are associated with probability of subsequent live birth in a cohort of infertile women from the general population. METHODS Using linked data from 12,987 women in the North-Trøndelag Health Study 1995-97 (HUNT 2) and the Medical Birth Registry of Norway (MBRN) a cohort of 467 women with self-reported infertility was followed prospectively in the MBRN for 11 years with regard to live birth. Anxiety and depressive symptoms were measured at baseline in HUNT 2 by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), i.e. the Anxiety (HADS-A) and Depression (HADS-D) sub-scales. The relationship between anxiety or depressive symptoms and live birth in the MBRN was analysed using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. RESULTS Anxiety and depressive symptoms were not associated with live birth rates. For anxiety symptoms, the crude hazard ratios (HR) for live birth was 1.004 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.96; 1.05); adjusted HR = 0.99 (95% CI = 0.94; 1.04), for depressive symptoms crude HR was 0.98 (95% CI = 0.92; 1.04); adjusted HR = 1.01 (95% CI = 0.94; 1.08). Among the 104 women with HADS-A ≥ 8 and/or HADS-D ≥ 8, 34 (32.7%) were registered with live birth in MBRN during the period of observation. However, 100 (27.6%) of the 363 women with both HADS-A ≤ 7 and HADS-D ≤ 7 were registered with live birth. CONCLUSION Anxiety and depressive symptoms are not associated with probability of live birth in women with self-reported infertility in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Biringer
- Section of Research and Innovation, Helse Fonna Local Health Authority, 5504 Haugesund, Norway.
| | - Ute Kessler
- Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, 5021 Bergen, Norway
| | - Louise M Howard
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, SE5 8AF London, UK
| | - Dharmintra Pasupathy
- Division of Women's Health, King's College London, SE1 7EH London, UK; NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, SE1 9RT London, UK
| | - Arnstein Mykletun
- Division of Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 0403 Oslo, Norway; University of New South Wales, NSW 2052, Sydney, Australia
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Dawadi S, Takefman J, Zelkowitz P. Fertility patients demonstrate an unmet need for the provision of psychological information: A cross sectional study. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2018; 101:1852-1858. [PMID: 30168420 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2018.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the provision of information by health care providers (HCPs) to fertility patients about accessing psychological resources. METHODS This study utilized data from a cross-sectional survey of 659 male and female patients seeking fertility treatment at clinics in Toronto and Montreal. Regression analyses were used to assess if sociodemographic and treatment variables were associated with the receipt of information, the desire for information, the helpfulness of the information, and the likelihood that participants had sought counselling. RESULTS The majority of respondents (79.8%) said that their HCP had not given them information about accessing psychological resources. Of the patients who did not receive this information, most (60%) said that they wanted it. Regression analysis revealed that immigrants, women, and patients with higher perceived stress scores were significantly more likely to desire this information. Furthermore, having received this information was associated with increased odds of counselling seeking (odds ratio = 3.31, p = 0.013). CONCLUSION Fertility patients demonstrated an unmet need for information about accessing psychological resources, and HCPs may play an integral role in bridging this information gap. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS To improve the patient-centeredness of fertility care, HCPs should be proactive in informing all patients about how to access psychological resources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Janet Takefman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill, Montreal, Canada
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A Determined Woman: Anxiety, Unresolved Mourning, and Capacity Assessment in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2018; 25:39-45. [PMID: 28059935 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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45
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Ergin RN, Polat A, Kars B, Öztekin D, Sofuoğlu K, Çalışkan E. Social stigma and familial attitudes related to infertility. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 15:46-49. [PMID: 29662716 PMCID: PMC5894536 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.04307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To determine the perceived social stigma and familial attitides and perception of sexuality in infertile couples attending infertility clinics. Materials and Methods: Infertile couples attending infertility clinics between the years of 2014 and 2015 were requested to complete detailed evaluation forms including questions related to the social stigma on their infertility, their familial attitudes, and perception of sexuality. Any partner of the infertile couple accepting to enroll in the study was given the evaluation forms. Their scores related to answers and demographics, and parameters related to infertility were analyzed. Results: A total 598 partners of infertile couples enrolled in the study, 58% represented 177 couples. Their infertility was primary in 98.3% and the duration of marriage and infertility was 9.81±5.58 and 9.76±5.53 years, respectively. The perception of social exclusion was present in 38% (p<0.001) of infertile couple, which was more significantly pronounced in female partners (p=0.013). Fifteen percent of the infertile couples thought themselves as isolated in public and losing value in public (p<0.001). However, sixty percent of infertile couples thought that they would achieve a notable place in community after having a baby (p<0.001). Infertility was accepted as a reason of divorce in only 13% of infertile couples (p<0.001). The majority of perticipnats, irrespective of sex, rejected that infertile women or men lost sexual appeal (86%; p<0.001). Conclusions: There is significant effect of infertility on familial attitudes and perception of sexuality of infertile couples. Unfortunately, there is significant negative social stigma on infertile couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahime Nida Ergin
- Bahçeşehir University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Aslıhan Polat
- Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, İzmit, Turkey
| | - Bülent Kars
- Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar Training and Resarch Hospital, Clinics of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Deniz Öztekin
- İzmir Aegean Materniti and Women's Diseases Training and Resarch Hospital, Clinics of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Kenan Sofuoğlu
- Zeynep Kamil Women and Children's Dieases Training and Resarch Hospital, Clinics of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Eray Çalışkan
- Bahçeşehir University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
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Patel A, Sharma PSVN, Kumar P, Binu VS. Illness Cognitions, Anxiety, and Depression in Men and Women Undergoing Fertility Treatments: A Dyadic Approach. J Hum Reprod Sci 2018; 11:180-189. [PMID: 30158816 PMCID: PMC6094532 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_119_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Emotional response to infertility is mediated by numerous interrelated psychological variables such as personality, health perceptions, cognitive appraisals, coping, and social support. While men and women respond to infertility differently, illness cognitions are a vital component of their emotional adjustment. The aim of this study is to compare the infertile men and women undergoing fertility treatments on perceived distress, helplessness, acceptance, benefits, anxiety, and depression. Materials and Methods Eighty-one infertile couples, undergoing intrauterine insemination participated in the study. They were assessed on the presence of infertility distress using the fertility problem inventory, for psychiatric morbidity using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, for affective disturbances using the Hamilton Anxiety and Depression scales, and for illness cognitions using the Illness Cognition Questionnaire. Statistical Analysis Data are analyzed using SPSS version 15. The paired sample t-test is performed for assessing differences on normally distributed data. The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test is performed for assessing differences in medians obtained on data that was skewed. Results and Discussion Infertile women (wives) were more emotionally distressed, anxious, and depressed than men (husbands). Gender-wise differences were found for perceptions of helplessness and acceptance of infertility. Infertility was perceived to be a nonbeneficial event for both partners investigated. Conclusion Negative cognitions and affective disturbances may contribute to higher treatment burden in couples seeking-assisted conception. The present study suggests that psychosocial intervention for couples plays a central role and should be integrated within the conventional treatments for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ansha Patel
- Department of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - P S V N Sharma
- Department of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Pratap Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Manipal Assisted Reproduction Centre, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India.,The Manipal Assisted Reproduction Centre, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - V S Binu
- Department of Biostatistics, Dr. M.V. Govindasamy Centre, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (An Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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Granek L, Nakash O. The Impact of Militarism, Patriarchy, and Culture on Israeli Women’s Reproductive Health and Well-Being. Int J Behav Med 2017; 24:893-900. [DOI: 10.1007/s12529-017-9650-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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48
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Frederiksen Y, O'Toole MS, Mehlsen MY, Hauge B, Elbaek HO, Zachariae R, Ingerslev HJ. The effect of expressive writing intervention for infertile couples: a randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod 2016; 32:391-402. [PMID: 28007790 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is expressive writing intervention (EWI) efficacious in reducing distress and improving pregnancy rates for couples going through ART treatment? SUMMARY ANSWER Compared to controls, EWI statistically significantly reduced depressive symptoms but not anxiety and infertility-related distress. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY ART treatment is considered stressful. So far, various psychological interventions have been tested for their potential in reducing infertility-related distress and the results are generally positive. It remains unclear whether EWI, a brief and potentially cost-effective intervention, could be advantageous. STUDY DESIGN SIZE, DURATION Between November 2010 and July 2012, a total of 295 participants (163 women, 132 men) were randomly allocated to EWI or a neutral writing control group. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants were couples undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment. Single women and couples with Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis or acute change of procedure from insemination to IVF, were excluded. EWI participants participated in three 20-min home-based writing exercises focusing on emotional disclosure in relation to infertility/fertility treatment (two sessions) and benefit finding (one session). Controls wrote non-emotionally in three 20-min sessions about their daily activities. The participants completed questionnaires at the beginning of treatment (t1), prior to the pregnancy test (t2), and 3 months later (t3). In total, 26.8% (79/295) were lost to follow-up. Mixed linear models were chosen to compare the two groups over time for psychological outcomes (depression, anxiety and infertility-related distress), and a Chi2 test was employed in order to examine group differences in pregnancy rates MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: One hundred and fifty-three participants received EWI (women = 83; men = 70) and 142 participants were allocated to the neutral writing control group (women = 83; men = 62). Both women and partners in the EWI group exhibited greater reductions in depressive symptoms compared with controls (P = 0.049; [CI 95%: -0.04; -0.01] Cohen's d = 0.27). The effect of EWI on anxiety did not reach statistical significance. Overall infertility-related distress increased marginally for the partners in the EWI group compared to the partners in the control group (P = 0.06; Cohen's d = 0.17). However, in relation to the personal subdomain, the increase was statistically significant (P = 0.01; Cohen's d = 0.24). EWI had no statistically significant effect on pregnancy rates with 42/83 (50.6%) achieving pregnancy in the EWI group compared with 40/80 (49.4%) in the control group (RR = 0.99 [CI 95% = 0.725, 1.341]; P = 0.94). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The results for depressive symptoms corresponded to a small effect size and the remaining results failed to reach statistical significance. This could be due to sample characteristics leading to a possible floor-effect, as we did not exclude participants with low levels of emotional distress at baseline. Furthermore, men showed increased infertility-related distress over time. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS EWI is a potentially cost-effective and easy to implement home-based intervention, and even small effects may be relevant. When faced with infertility, EWI could thus be a relevant tool for alleviating depressive symptoms by allowing the expression of feelings about infertility that may be perceived as socially unacceptable. However, the implications do not seem to be applicable for men, who presented with increased infertility-related distress over time. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The present study was supported by research grants from Merck Sharpe and Dohme and The Danish Agency for Science Technology and Innovation as part of a publicly funded PhD. The funding bodies had no influence on the data collection, analysis or conclusions of the study. None of the authors have any conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Clinicaltrials.gov, trial no. NCT01187095. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 7th September 2010 DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT: 23rd November 2010.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Frederiksen
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mia Skytte O'Toole
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mimi Y Mehlsen
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Benedicte Hauge
- Horsens Fertility Clinic, Horsens Hospital, 8700 Horsens, Denmark
| | | | - Robert Zachariae
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8000 Aarhus Denmark
| | - Hans Jakob Ingerslev
- Center for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/the Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark.,Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
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Czamanski-Cohen J, Sarid O, Cwikel J, Levitas E, Lunenfeld E, Har-Vardi I. Practice makes perfect: The effect of cognitive behavioral interventions during IVF treatments on women's perceived stress, plasma cortisol and pregnancy rates. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jrhm.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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50
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Chi HJ, Park IH, Sun HG, Kim JW, Lee KH. Psychological distress and fertility quality of life (FertiQoL) in infertile Korean women: The first validation study of Korean FertiQoL. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2016. [PMID: 27689041 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2016.43.3.174.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate psychological distress and fertility quality of life (FertiQoL) in infertile Korean women, and to investigate whether a correlation exists between psychological distress and FertiQoL. METHODS Participants in this study were made up of 141 infertile women and 65 fertile women. We conducted a survey on psychological distress (using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales [DASS]-42 questionnaire) and administered a FertiQoL questionnaire. The levels of stress hormones (adrenocorticotropic hormone [ACTH] and cortisol) in serum were assessed. RESULTS The scores for depression (13.7±8.4), anxiety (10.7±6.4), and stress (18.0±8.3) among the infertile women were significantly higher than the scores for depression (9.4±7.5), anxiety (6.6±6.0), and stress (12.2±8.3, p<0.001) among the fertile women. There was no difference in the scores for depression (13.5±8.2, 13.8±8.6), anxiety (10.0±6.2, 11.5±6.6) and stress (17.7±8.4, 18.4±8.1) between younger (≤34) and older (≥35) participants. The mind-body (r =-0.495) and emotional (r =-0.590) subscales showed a higher negative correlation with stress compared with other scales of psychological distress. At the same time, the social (r =-0.537) and relational (r =-0.385) subscales showed a higher negative correlation with depression. Levels of cortisol and ACTH in infertile women were 9.1 µg/mL and 11.9 pg/mL, respectively, which are within normal ranges. CONCLUSION The levels of psychological distress and quality of life in infertile Korean women seem to require psychological intervention. This study provides a baseline measurement of psychological distress and FertiQoL in infertile women in Korea, which will be available for developing psychological interventions for infertile Korean women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Jun Chi
- IVF Center, Mizmedi Hospital, Seoul, Korea.; IVF Center, Mamapapa & Baby Clinic, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Il-Hae Park
- IVF Center, Mamapapa & Baby Clinic, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Hong-Gil Sun
- IVF Center, Mamapapa & Baby Clinic, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Jae-Won Kim
- IVF Center, Mamapapa & Baby Clinic, Ulsan, Korea
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