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Poulter MML, Balsom AA, Gordon JL. Pilot trial of a new self-directed psychological intervention for infertility-related distress. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:111. [PMID: 39152484 PMCID: PMC11328509 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-024-01535-y] [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] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Now affecting one in six couples in Canada, infertility is defined as a lack of conception after 12 or more months of regular, unprotected heterosexual intercourse. Infertility is associated with immense psychological burden, particularly for individuals assigned female at birth. Yet existing psychological interventions are not specialized to this population and have been shown to be only marginally effective at relieving distress related to infertility. Thus, a new online self-directed psychological intervention was co-created with a panel of women experiencing infertility, and ultimately consisted of six 10-min video modules addressing the cognitive, emotional, and interpersonal aspects of infertility-related distress. METHODS In the current study, 21 women experiencing reduced quality of life related to infertility were recruited to participate in a one-arm pre-post pilot testing the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the program. Participant adherence and retention were monitored, and participants rated the credibility of the program and the helpfulness of each module as well as provided feedback on the content and format of the program. Pre-to-post changes in fertility quality of life, anxious symptoms, depressive symptoms, and relationship satisfaction were examined. RESULTS The program modules were highly rated by participants, with average helpfulness ratings ranging from 7.5 to 8.2/10. Two participants became pregnant and therefore stopped prematurely, 79% of the remaining participants completed all six modules, and participants reported completing 52.8 (SD = 82.0) min of homework per week. Participants perceived the intervention as highly credible and generally approved of the format, length, and speed; however, 68% of participants had recommendations for additional content to be included in the intervention. While relationship satisfaction did not change significantly over time, large pre-to-post improvements in fertility quality of life, depression, and anxiety were observed (p < .001; Cohen's ds = 0.9-1.3). CONCLUSIONS This self-directed intervention was well received and has the potential to be highly effective in reducing infertility-related distress, informing future development and optimization. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05103982.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashley A Balsom
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
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2
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Swift A, Thomas E, Larson K, Swanson M, Fernandez-Pineda M. Infertility-related stress, quality of life, and reasons for fertility treatment discontinuation among US women: A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional study. SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE 2024; 39:100955. [PMID: 38394810 DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2024.100955] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fertility treatments often cause women high levels of stress and low quality of life (QoL). Women discontinue fertility treatments for a variety of reasons, yet little is known about infertility-related stress and QoL among women who discontinue treatments. The purpose of this study was to examine infertility-related stress and QoL among women who discontinued fertility treatments compared to those who continued treatments, and reasons for treatment discontinuation. METHODS A secondary analysis was conducted to examine infertility-related stress and QoL among 70 women who discontinued from fertility treatments compared to 166 women who received fertility treatments. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square test for independence, independent t-tests, and binary logistic regression analysis. Conventional content analysis was conducted on responses to an open-text question about reasons for treatment discontinuation. RESULTS No differences in infertility-related stress and QoL were found between groups. Explanatory variables of treatment discontinuation included income [odds ratios (OR) 2.50, 95% CI 1.12-5.61], QoL dissatisfaction (OR 2.49, 95% CI 1.33-4.69), and infertility duration three years or greater (OR 2.40, 95% CI 1.30-4.42). Three themes of treatment discontinuation were identified: Covering the Cost; Waiting for a Resolution; Re-envisioning Family Identity. CONCLUSION Infertility-related stress and QoL are similar among women who discontinued and who received fertility treatments, highlighting the need for emotional support services for women regardless of their treatment status. During the period of infertility, treatment discontinuation related to cost, waiting for a resolution, or re-envisioning family identity occurred, suggesting opportunities for specific interventions to support women's mental health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Swift
- Department of Advanced Nursing Practice and Education, East Carolina University College of Nursing, 2205 W 5(th) St., Greenville, NC, USA.
| | | | - Kim Larson
- Department of Nursing Science, East Carolina University, College of Nursing, 2205 W 5th St., Greenville, NC, USA.
| | - Melvin Swanson
- Department of Nursing Science, East Carolina University, College of Nursing, 2205 W 5th St., Greenville, NC, USA.
| | - Madeline Fernandez-Pineda
- Department of Nursing Science, East Carolina University, College of Nursing, 2205 W 5th St., Greenville, NC, USA.
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3
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Collura B, Hayward B, Modrzejewski KA, Mottla GL, Richter KS, Catherino AB. Identifying Factors Associated with Discontinuation of Infertility Treatment Prior to Achieving Pregnancy: Results of a Nationwide Survey. J Patient Exp 2024; 11:23743735241229380. [PMID: 38414755 PMCID: PMC10898306 DOI: 10.1177/23743735241229380] [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] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this mixed methods, cross-sectional patient survey was to characterize patient experience, to explore the frequency of and reasons for infertility treatment discontinuation and return to infertility treatments. Participants were recruited from United States patient support groups. Participants had received or were receiving ovulation induction (OI) with or without intrauterine insemination (IUI), with or without subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF), or IVF with no other previous infertility treatment. Live birth was achieved by 62% of participants. Compared with participants treated with OI/IUI only, participants who underwent OI/IUI followed by ≥1 IVF cycle were less likely to consider discontinuing care (64% vs 77%; P = .014) or to discontinue treatment without achieving a pregnancy (40% vs 58%; P = .004). The most commonly cited reasons for treatment discontinuation were financial (62%) and psychological burden/treatment fatigue (58%). Expected versus actual time to pregnancy differed greatly. Continued desire for a child (60%) was the most frequently cited reason for continuing or resuming treatment. Expanded access to treatment, counseling and fostering realistic expectations regarding cumulative time to pregnancy may reduce treatment discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Collura
- RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, McLean, VA, USA
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4
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Shen Q, Wang B, He T, Li S, Peng EN, Lei J. Factors associated with discontinuation in fertility treatment: a systematic scoping review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:409-421. [PMID: 37987953 PMCID: PMC10894784 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02982-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The discontinuation of fertility treatment could decrease the chances of achieving parenthood for infertile patients and often leads to economic loss and medical resource waste. However, the evidence on the factors associated with discontinuation is unclear and inconsistent in the context of fertility treatment. This scoping review aimed to summarize the evidence on factors associated with discontinuation in fertility treatment, identify the current knowledge gap, and generate recommendations for future research. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, American Psychological Association, and http://clinicaltrials.gov from inception to June 2023 without language or time restrictions. We also searched the grey literature in Open Grey and Google Scholar and hand-searched the reference lists of relevant studies to identify potentially eligible studies. Publications that studied factors associated with discontinuation in fertility treatment were included. The identified factors were mapped to the World Health Organization's treatment adherence model. RESULTS Thirty-seven articles involving 41,973 infertile patients from 13 countries were included in this scoping review. All studies identified the factors from the perspective of patients, except for one that described the factors from the healthcare providers' perspective. A total of 42 factors were identified, with most of them belonging to the patient-related dimension, followed by socio-economic-related, treatment-related, condition-related, and healthcare system-related dimensions. Female education level, social support, and insurance coverage decreased the likelihood of treatment discontinuation, whereas multiparous women, male infertility, depression, higher infertility duration, and treatment duration increased the likelihood of treatment discontinuation. Age, education level, and ethnicity are the commonly nonmodifiable factors for treatment discontinuation, while insurance coverage, depression, and anxiety symptoms are among some of the more commonly reported modifiable factors. CONCLUSION This is the first scoping review examining and synthesizing evidence on the factors influencing of discontinuation in fertility treatment. This review could inform researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to address modifiable barriers and facilitators to develop personalized and multicomponent interventions that could improve the discontinuation in fertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Shen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of The Third XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, No138, Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Reproductive Center of The Third XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
- Xiangya Nursing School of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Binglu Wang
- Xiangya Nursing School of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Tan He
- Xiangya Nursing School of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Suya Li
- Tongji Hospital of HuaZhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - ENuo Peng
- Department of Reproductive Center of The Third XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jun Lei
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of The Third XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, No138, Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410013, Hunan Province, China.
- Department of Reproductive Center of The Third XiangYa Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
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5
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Jadhav AS, Govil D. Treatment-seeking behaviour among infertile tribal women of Palghar district in India. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1115643. [PMID: 37954895 PMCID: PMC10634289 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1115643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The tribal culture views health care practices differently from the mainstream. Infertile tribal women practice treatment-seeking behaviour that reflects the community's cultural access to and availability of treatment as well as customs to meet their health care needs. In the environment of rising awareness of infertility and numerous treatment options, this study aims to highlight the infertility treatment-seeking behaviour of tribal communities. Data and methods The study employed a mix methods approach to collect data from 153 tribal couples suffering with infertility (interview schedule) and the community (in-depth interviews-14 and focus group discussions-12). The data was analyzed using Stata 13.0, and NVivo 10. Results of the quantitative data were triangulated with qualitative data for writing. Results Many treatment options were available for infertility in the community. Generally, traditional healers (98.7%) were preferred over modern healthcare practitioners (35%). Community members usually guided infertile couples for choosing providers. Treatment practices were very different among primary infertile women than sub-fertile. Women frequently discontinued treatment and switched between providers because of unaffordability, poor connectivity, distance, travel time, time constraints, and non-supportive circumstances. The couples were advised to consume herbs, and eat or avoid certain food items, were given massage, burns on the abdomen (dagani), removed black blood (phasani) and other various rituals to appease spirits, get rid of ghosts while offering animal sacrifice, and conducting shidwa ritual. The mean expenditure on treatment was INR 18,374. If treatment did not yield any result, couple resorted to add another wife, divorce, accept childlessness and foster a child. Conclusion Local authorities should strive to work towards the socio-economic development of the tribal communities and provide good healthcare services at their doorstep. The infertility problem needs to be understood in the context of poverty, tribal beliefs, and unequal access to healthcare resources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dipti Govil
- International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai, India
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Alon I, Chebance Z, Massucci FA, Bounartzi T, Ravitsky V. Mapping international research output within ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of assisted reproductive technologies. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2023-2043. [PMID: 37382788 PMCID: PMC10440310 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02834-8] [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: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Research about ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is influenced by cultural and value-based perspectives. It impacts regulations, funding, and clinical practice, and shapes the perception of ART in society. We analyze trends in the global literature on ELSI of ART between 1999 and 2019. As most output is produced by North America, Western Europe, and Australia, we focus on international research, i.e., academic articles studying a different country than that of the corresponding author. METHODS The corpus, extracted from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, includes 7714 articles, of which 1260 involved international research. Analysis is based on titles, abstracts and keywords, classification into ART fields and Topic Modeling, the countries of corresponding author, and countries mentioned in abstracts. RESULTS An absolute increase in the number of international studies, and their relative proportion. Trends of decentralization are apparent, yet geographic centralization remains, which reflects an unequal distribution of research funds across countries and may result in findings that do not reflect global diversity of norms and values. Preference for studying conceptual challenges through philosophical analysis, and for fields that concern only a portion of ART cycles. Less attention was dedicated to economic analysis and barriers to access, or to knowledge of and attitudes. International studies provide an opportunity to expand and diversify the scope of ELSI research. CONCLUSION We call on the research community to promote international collaborations, focus on less explored regions, and divert more attention to questions of cost, access, knowledge, and attitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ido Alon
- Department of Development Economics, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
- University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada.
| | | | | | - Theofano Bounartzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Vardit Ravitsky
- University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Stein LJ, Rösner S, Lo Giudice A, Ditzen B, Wischmann T. Analysing medical predictors for the outcome of infertility treatment: a 5-year follow-up survey. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 308:1007-1014. [PMID: 37347283 PMCID: PMC10348950 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07097-3] [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: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE For many couples, bearing children is a common life goal; however it cannot always be fulfilled. Undergoing infertility treatment does not always guarantee pregnancies and live births. Couples experience miscarriages and even discontinue infertility treatment. Significant medical predictors for the outcome of infertility treatment have yet to be fully identified. METHODS To further our understanding, a cross-sectional 5-year follow-up survey was undertaken, in which 95 women and 82 men that have been treated at the Women's Hospital of Heidelberg University participated. Binary logistic regressions, parametric and non-parametric methods were used for our sample to determine the relevance of biological (infertility diagnoses, maternal and paternal age) and lifestyle factors (smoking, drinking, over- and underweight) on the outcome of infertility treatment (clinical pregnancy, live birth, miscarriage, dropout rate). In addition, chi-square tests were used to examine differences in the outcome depending on the number of risk factors being present. RESULTS In the binary logistic regression models for clinical pregnancies, live births and drop outs were statistically significant only for the maternal age, whereas the maternal and paternal BMI, smoking, infertility diagnoses and infections showed no significant predicting effect on any of the outcome variables. A correlation between the number of risk factors and the outcome of infertility treatment could not be excluded. CONCLUSION The results confirm that maternal age has an effect on infertility treatment, whereas the relevance of other possible medical predictors remains unclear. Further large-scale studies should be considered to increase our knowledge on their predictive power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Joana Stein
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Bergheimer Str. 20, 69115, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Sabine Rösner
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital of Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alessandra Lo Giudice
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Bergheimer Str. 20, 69115, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Beate Ditzen
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Bergheimer Str. 20, 69115, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tewes Wischmann
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Bergheimer Str. 20, 69115, Heidelberg, Germany
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8
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Acker A, Senapati S, Dokras A. Barriers to access: findings from an implementation study of an artificial intelligence-augmented 2-way chatbot for fertility care. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:199-201. [PMID: 37085095 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Acker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Suneeta Senapati
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Anuja Dokras
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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9
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Ghorbani M, Hoseini FS, Yunesian M, Salehin S, Talebi SS, Keramat A. A supportive randomized clinical trial on Iranian infertile women with the history of infertility treatments dropout following unsuccessful ART cycle/s: A study protocol. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13838. [PMID: 36879964 PMCID: PMC9984792 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Due to high dropout rate of infertility treatments and lack of any intervention for motivating infertile couples to continue treatments, the present study will be conducted with the aim of designing, implementing and determining the effectiveness of the proposed intervention in order to continue infertility treatments. Methods & Analysis: We will conduct this study in two stages; a review of literature and past studies will be done to identify interventions that have been performed for infertile couples, and then an appropriate intervention with the aim of continuing infertility treatments for infertile women will be designed. After that a Delphi study will be designed in accordance with collected information of previous stages and will be approved by experts. In the second stage we will implement designed intervention of a randomized clinical trial on two groups of infertile women (control and intervention) with the history of infertility treatment dropout following unsuccessful cycle. We will use descriptive statistic in first and second stage. In second stage Chi square test and independent samples T test will be used to compare variables between groups and variables in study questionnaires before and after the intervention between two groups of study. Discussion The present study will be the first study to be performed as a clinical trial on infertile women who have discontinued the treatments, with the aim of continuing treatments. Thereupon, it seems that the results of this study will be the basis for studies around the world to prevent premature cessation of infertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghorbani
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Hoseini
- Faculty Member of School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Masud Yunesian
- School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrbanoo Salehin
- Sexual Health and Fertility Research center. Shahroud University of Medical sciences. Shahroud. Iran
| | - Seyedeh Solmaz Talebi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Keramat
- Center for Health Related Social and Behavioral Sciences Research, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
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Brautsch LAS, Voss I, Schmidt L, Vassard D. Social disparities in the use of ART treatment: a national register-based cross-sectional study among women in Denmark. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:503-510. [PMID: 36370443 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How are educational level, labor market attachment and income associated with receiving a first ART treatment in either the public or private healthcare sector among women in Denmark? SUMMARY ANSWER Higher educational level and income as well as labor market attachment were associated with higher probability of initiating ART treatment at public and private fertility clinics among women in Denmark. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Infertility is common in populations worldwide, and the approach to this issue differs between societies and healthcare systems. In the public Danish healthcare system, ART treatment is free of charge, and the direct cost for patients is therefore low. In the private healthcare sector in Denmark, ART treatment is self-financed. There is limited knowledge about the association between socioeconomic factors and seeking ART treatment, although previous studies have indicated that higher socioeconomic status is associated with seeking ART treatment. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Women undergoing ART treatment during 1994-2016 registered in the Danish IVF register were individually linked with data from sociodemographic population registers using the Danish Personal Identification number. The study population consisted of 69 018 women treated with ART and 670 713 age-matched comparison women from the background population with no previous history of ART treatment. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The women included in the analyses were aged 18-45 years. The associations between attained educational level, labor market attachment and income and receiving a first ART treatment attempt were investigated for women either initiating treatment in the public sector or in the private sector, respectively. Information on age and origin was included as potential confounders, and odds ratios (ORs) were estimated in logistic regression models. In addition, analyses were stratified by age group to investigate potential differences across the age span. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Adjusted results showed increased odds of receiving a first ART treatment in either the public or private sector among women with a higher educational level. Furthermore, women in employment were more likely to receive a first ART treatment in the public or private sector compared to women outside the workforce. The odds of receiving a first ART treatment increased with increasing income level. Surprisingly, income level had a greater impact on the odds of receiving a first ART treatment in the public sector than in the private sector. Women in the highest income group had 10 times higher odds of receiving a first ART treatment in the public sector (OR: 10.53 95% CI: 10.13, 10.95) compared to women in the lowest income group. Sub-analyses in different age groups showed significant associations between ART treatment and income level and labor market attachment in all age groups. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our study does not include non-ART treatments, as the national IVF register did not register these types of fertility treatments before 2007. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In Denmark, there is equal access to medically assisted reproduction treatment in the publicly funded healthcare system, and since there is no social inequality in the prevalence of infertility, social inequality in the use of ART treatment would not be expected as such. However, our results show that social inequality is found for a first ART treatment attempt across publicly and privately funded ART treatment across the socioeconomic indicators, educational level, labor market attachment and income. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The funding for the establishment of the Danish National ART-Couple II Cohort (DANAC II Cohort) was obtained from the Rosa Ebba Hansen Foundation. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ida Voss
- Department of Public Health, Section of Social Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Lone Schmidt
- Department of Public Health, Section of Social Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Ditte Vassard
- Department of Public Health, Section of Social Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen K, Denmark
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Mackay A, Taylor S, Glass B. Inequity of Access: Scoping the Barriers to Assisted Reproductive Technologies. PHARMACY 2023; 11:pharmacy11010017. [PMID: 36649027 PMCID: PMC9887590 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility impacts millions of people of reproductive age worldwide, with approximately 10-15% of couples affected. When infertility is present, there are many potential barriers to treatment, leading to inequity of access. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are the mainstay of medical treatment for infertility and include procedures such as in vitro fertilisation. This scoping review aims to explore the barriers to accessing assisted reproductive technologies to highlight a potential role for the pharmacist in addressing these barriers. Five databases, including CINAHL, Emcare, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched using keywords that resulted in 19 studies that explored barriers to initially accessing or continuing ART. Studies identified more than one barrier to accessing ART, with the most mentioned barrier being the geographic location of the patient, with others themed as psychological, financial, minority groups, educational level, and the age of the patient. Recommendations were made to address barriers to accessing ART, which included changes to government regulations to increase health education and promotion of infertility. Pharmacists' accessibility, even in geographically remote locations, places them in an ideal position to address many of the challenges experienced by people accessing infertility treatment to improve outcomes for these people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Mackay
- Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Douglas, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Selina Taylor
- Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University, Mount Isa, QLD 4825, Australia
| | - Beverley Glass
- Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Douglas, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
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12
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Pharmacotherapy of infertility in Ghana: Why do infertile patients discontinue their fertility treatment? PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274635. [PMID: 36251650 PMCID: PMC9576038 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, millions of people of reproductive age experience infertility. With that notwithstanding, most infertile patients undergoing pharmacotherapy withdraw from treatment before achieving the desired outcome. The reasons for their withdrawal, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, have not been well examined, hence the need for this study. Objectives The aim of the study was to examine why infertile patients discontinue pharmacotherapy prior to achieving conception. Methods The study employed an exploratory qualitative design. Purposive sampling technique was used to recruit subjects into the study. Twenty infertile patients (fourteen females and six males) who discontinued their treatment, and eight attending health professionals who provided direct care to these patients were interviewed. Telephone and face-to-face interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. The data collected were transcribed, coded, and generated into themes using thematic content analysis. Results The major reasons for discontinuation of infertility treatment included lack of support from male partners, seeking alternative treatment, unmet outcome, poor medical services, distance, stigmatization, and relocation. Conclusions Patients and healthcare personnel shared both similar and diverse views on reasons for discontinuation of infertility treatment that reflect situations in a typical African setting, most of which are not reported in existing studies. The outcome of this study will provide insight for fertility therapists and policy makers in designing appropriate measures to facilitate maximum compliance and improvement in treatment outcome.
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13
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Ghorbani M, Hoseini FS, Yunesian M, Salehin S, Keramat A, Nasiri S. A systematic review and meta-analysis on dropout of infertility treatments and related reasons/factors. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2022; 42:1642-1652. [DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2071604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghorbani
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Hoseini
- Faculty Member of School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Masud Yunesian
- School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrbanoo Salehin
- Sexual Health and Fertility Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Keramat
- Center for Health Related Social and Behavioral Sciences Research, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Saeideh Nasiri
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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14
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Camacho A, Konicki AJ, McGrath JM, Carpentier P. Marital Satisfaction of Infertile Couples Using Natural Procreative Technology (NaProTECHNOLOGY). J Christ Nurs 2021; 38:224-229. [PMID: 33234801 DOI: 10.1097/cnj.0000000000000802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Infertility affects one in 16 married women in the United States where 12.7% of these seek treatment. The stress of infertility and treatment is known to impact marital satisfaction, which can be further complicated by personal and religious beliefs regarding the ethics of some assistive reproductive technologies. A morally acceptable approach to infertility diagnosis and treatment is natural procreative technology or NaProTECHNOLOGY (NPT) using the Creighton Model FertilityCare™ System. A quantitative, descriptive study utilizing demographic surveys and the Index of Marital Satisfaction found that couples using NPT reported marital satisfaction.
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Domar A, Vassena R, Dixon M, Costa M, Vegni E, Collura B, Markert M, Samuelsen C, Guiglotto J, Roitmann E, Boivin J. Barriers and factors associated with significant delays to initial consultation and treatment for infertile patients and partners of infertile patients. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:1126-1136. [PMID: 34756644 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What are the key drivers and barriers for infertile patients and their partners to see an infertility specialist and initiate treatment? DESIGN An online, international, 30-minute quantitative survey collected data from 1944 respondents from nine countries. Respondents were infertile patients (n = 1037) or partners of infertile patients (n = 907; but not necessarily partners of the patient sample), at different stages of the treatment journey. RESULTS The overall average times were 3.2 years to receiving a medical infertility diagnosis, 2.0 years attempting to achieve pregnancy without assistance before treatment, and 1.6 years of treatment before successful respondents achieved pregnancy. The most common driver for considering treatment after a consultation (n = 1025) was an equal desire within the couple to have a child (40.8%). Of the partners (n = 356), 29.8% reported that transparency of information from healthcare professionals about treatment expectations was important. A significantly higher proportion of respondents seeking treatment reported that healthcare professionals offered supportive services (61.2%) and mental health services (62.0%), than of the 207 respondents who did not seek treatment (32.4% and 36.7%, respectively; P < 0.001). Perceived cost was the most commonly reported barrier for respondents not seeking a consultation (37.5% of n = 352) or treatment (42.0% of n = 207). Of the 95 respondents who discontinued treatment, 34.7% discontinued due to the financial impact. CONCLUSIONS Respondents reported significant delays to seeking treatment, probably negatively impacting the chances of achieving pregnancy. Motivational coherence within couples was a key driver and cost of treatment was the main barrier. Reported supportive service offerings by healthcare professionals were significantly associated with continuation of the treatment journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Domar
- Boston IVF, Domar Center for Mind/Body Health, Waltham, MA and Harvard Medical School, Boston MA, USA.
| | | | - Marjorie Dixon
- ANOVA Fertility and Reproductive Health, University of Toronto, Toronto ON, Canada
| | - Mauro Costa
- Reproductive Medicine, International Evangelical Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Elena Vegni
- Department of Health Sciences, Università Statale di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Collura
- RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, McClean, Virginia, USA
| | - Marie Markert
- Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Health Economics & Outcomes Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carl Samuelsen
- Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Health Economics & Outcomes Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Jacky Boivin
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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16
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Alon I, Pinilla J. Assisted reproduction in Spain, outcome and socioeconomic determinants of access. Int J Equity Health 2021; 20:156. [PMID: 34229664 PMCID: PMC8259134 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-021-01438-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION We analyzed two questions. First, the effectiveness of public Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) in Spain compared with private ones, measured by the time since initiating ART treatment until achieving pregnancy, accounting for age and socioeconomic factors. Second, socioeconomic determinants of access to ART, referring primarily to financial means derived by employment, income, and wealth. DESIGN We applied statistical models on data extracted from the national Spanish Fertility Survey from 2018. The first topic was analyzed by competing risk survival analysis conducted on a sample of 667 women who initiate ART treatment since 2000. The second, by a Bivariate Probit model conducted on a sample of 672 women older than 41 years who required ART services. RESULTS The first analysis raised that throughout the treatment, patients treated exclusively in private clinics had on average a higher cumulative incidence of becoming pregnant compared with patients who approached public clinics. The second analysis raised that both higher household equivalent income and higher education increase the likelihood of accessing ART in a private clinic and decrease the tendency of accessing public clinics or failing to access any service. Moreover, being single decreases the likelihood of accessing public clinics or ART services in general. CONCLUSIONS Long waiting periods could be the main reason for the lower incidence of getting pregnant in public healthcare, explaining why patients choose private over public care. We develop a broader discussion over the extent of Spanish public funding of ART, the unequal medical outcome, and potential options for optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ido Alon
- Department of Development Economics, Research Group on Economics and Management of Innovation, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaime Pinilla
- Department of Quantitative Methods in Economics, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
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Gu F, Ruan S, Luo C, Huang Y, Luo L, Xu Y, Zhou C. Can repeat IVF/ICSI cycles compensate for the natural decline in fertility with age? an estimate of cumulative live birth rates over multiple IVF/ICSI cycles in Chinese advanced-aged population. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:14385-14398. [PMID: 34016792 PMCID: PMC8202897 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In order to find out to what extent ovarian aging could be compensated by the in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) treatments, a total of 4102 women above the age of 35 undergoing 6489 complete cycles from 2009 to 2015 with follow-up visits until 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Cumulative live birth rates (CLBRs) across multiple IVF/ICSI cycles were compared in the study population stratified by age and ovarian reserve (classified by the POSEIDON criteria). Younger patients (aged between 35 and 40) could well benefit from repeat IVF treatments, with the optimal CLBRs ranging from 62%-72% for up to four complete cycles. However, the CLBRs sharply declined to 7.7%-40% in older patients (>40yrs). In light of ovarian reserve, the optimal-estimated-four-cycle CLBR of younger patients (35-40yrs) in POSEIDON group 2 could approached to those with normal ovarian response (non-POSEIDON), with 57.3%-70% versus 74.5%-81% respectively. However, the CLBR of older patients (>40yrs) in POSEIDON group 2 only reached 50% of their counterparts. Extending the number of IVF cycles beyond three or four is effective for advanced-aged women, especially in younger normal responders (non-POSEIDON) and unexpected poor/suboptimal responders (POSEIDON group 2). The real turning point at which female fecundity dropped after multiple IVF cycles is at the age of 40.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Simin Ruan
- Department of Medical Ultrasonics, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Chenxiang Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Lu Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yanwen Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Canquan Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510080, China
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18
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Patient burden and healthcare resource utilization of regimens for ovarian stimulation. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:573-581. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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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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20
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Houtchens MK, Edwards NC, Hayward B, Mahony MC, Phillips AL. Live birth rates, infertility diagnosis, and infertility treatment in women with and without multiple sclerosis: Data from an administrative claims database. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 46:102541. [PMID: 33296964 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Real-world data regarding live birth rates (LBRs) and infertility in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) are lacking. This study compared LBRs, infertility diagnoses, and infertility treatments in women with and without MS. METHODS Using a retrospective US administrative claims database, patients 18-55 years with MS were matched 1:1 to patients without MS to compare LBRs, infertility diagnoses, and infertility treatments used between cohorts. RESULTS Overall LBRs were lower in women with MS (n=96,937) versus women without (n=96,937; 5.0% vs 7.0%; p<0.0001). A greater proportion of women with MS than without had a diagnosis of infertility (8.5% vs 8.1%; p=0.0006). Fewer women with MS than without used any infertility treatment (1.0% vs 1.2%; p=0.0002). Among women with or without MS who received infertility treatments, no significant difference was observed in LBRs with oral (32.2% vs 31.5%; p=0.8536) or injectable (44.0% vs 49.3%; p=0.2603) treatment. CONCLUSION Women with MS had a lower LBR, received more infertility diagnoses, and were less likely to receive infertility treatment than women without MS. There was no difference in LBRs following infertility treatment. Claims-data studies provide valuable exploratory analyses that reflect interactions between patients and the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria K Houtchens
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Brookline, MA, USA.
| | | | - Brooke Hayward
- EMD Serono, Inc., Rockland, MA, USA, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Mary C Mahony
- EMD Serono, Inc., Rockland, MA, USA, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Amy L Phillips
- EMD Serono, Inc., Rockland, MA, USA, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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21
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Ghorbani M, Hosseini FS, Yunesian M, Keramat A. Dropout of infertility treatments and related factors among infertile couples. Reprod Health 2020; 17:192. [PMID: 33267894 PMCID: PMC7709385 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-020-01048-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dropout of infertility treatments is a global issue and many factors play role in this phenomenon. It is one of the most challenges in life of infertile couples. The purpose of this study was to determine dropout rate and related factors/reasons in the world and in Iran. Methods We will conduct a mixed method study with sequential exploratory design (systematic review, qualitative and quantitative phase). In the first stage a systematic review on dropout rate of infertility treatments and related factors will be done. In second stage (quantitative–qualitative study), a retrospective cohort study will be conducted on infertile couples to determine dropout rate of infertility treatments. The follow-up period to assess the discontinuation of treatment in patients, who have discontinued the treatment, will be considered 6 months after the treatment cessation. Data would be analyzed by descriptive statistics. We want to determine proportion and percentage of discontinuation rate among different groups with different causes of infertility. Then, we also will use Chi-square test to compare discontinuation rates among these groups. In qualitative section of second stage, semi-structured interviews would be performed with infertile female who had the history of infertility treatments failure. In this stage, participants will be selected using purposeful sampling method with maximum variation in terms of age, education, occupation, type of infertility, type of treatments, number of unsuccessful treatment and infertility duration. Data would be analyzed using conventional content analysis. Discussion Determining dropout rate and its related factors/reasons would be helpful for future studies to plan suitable interventions for supporting infertile couples. It also helps politicians to have a better understanding of infertility and its consequences on infertile couple’s life. Plain English Summary In today’s world, infertility is a common phenomenon due to postponement of childbearing following the older age of marriage, tendency to reach higher educational level, economical problems and etc. Infertility brings many challenges and stresses to the individuals by itself and it is very hard to cope with. The problem gets worse, when it is associated with failure in treatments. Many of infertile couples cannot tolerate this failure and may decide to discontinue treatments before achieving pregnancy for ending many stressors which are associated with treatments. As we know, childbearing and having at least one child has important position in some societies such as Iranian culture; so ending the treatment before achieving optimal result may have some adverse consequences in the families such as divorce, remarriage, family conflicts, et. Absolutely many factors play role in dropout of infertility treatments, and many studies around the world have suggested many factors/reasons in dropout of infertility treatments, but there are still many gaps about this subject, especially among Iranian society. This study would be conducted in three consecutive stages, in the first stage; we will do a complete review of existing studies of the world to find out related factors/reasons of dropout in detail. In second stage, dropout rate of infertile couples (380 couples) after at least one unsuccessful cycle of treatment would be achieved by assessing medical records and telephone interview. Data of the first and second stage will help us to have better vision about the issue of dropout and would be used to construct a semi structured interview for the last stage. And finally in the third stage, reasons of dropout would be asked by an in depth interview from infertile couples. We hope the information from this study will help politicians better understand and plan for dropout of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghorbani
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | | | - Masud Yunesian
- School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Keramat
- Reproductive Studies and Women's Health Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
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22
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Whittier Olerich K, Summers K, Lewis AM, Stewart K, Ryan GL. Patient identified factors influencing decisions to seek fertility care: adaptation of a wellness model. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2019; 39:263-275. [PMID: 31856599 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2019.1705263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To adapt a fertility care wellness model.Background: Despite availability of a range of diagnostic and therapeutic services for infertility, many do not seek care or discontinue care prior to achieving a live birth. Wellness models can inform research on patient decisions to seek and continue fertility care, as many barriers and drivers are represented within the dimensions of wellness.Methods: A mixed-methods online survey was completed by 135 people of reproductive age who experienced infertility in the USA. Outcomes included drivers and barriers to seeking or continuing fertility care. Identified factors were compared by treatment history using chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. Themes and patterns were identified within 174 responses to 6 open-response items through conventional content analysis.Results: Thematic analysis revealed practical (environmental, financial, and physical) and affective (emotional, social and spiritual) dimensions of wellness in decisions to seek care (67%), with affective rationales more prominent in decisions to return for care (78%).Conclusion: Decisions to seek fertility care and return after failed treatment integrate practical and affective rationales from financial, physical, environmental, emotional, social and spiritual wellness dimensions. Drivers and barriers within these dimensions should be considered to encourage care seeking and improve patient retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Whittier Olerich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Karen Summers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Adam M Lewis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kathleen Stewart
- Department of Geographical and Sustainability Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Ginny L Ryan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Tierney K, Cai Y. Assisted reproductive technology use in the United States: a population assessment. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:1136-1143.e4. [PMID: 31843090 PMCID: PMC6986780 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.07.1323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study social and demographic differentiation of assisted reproduction technology (ART) use at the population level in the United States. DESIGN Population-based study. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Women 15-49 years old in the American Community Survey and National Vital Statistics Birth Certificate data from 2010-2017. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Birth rate after ART by major sociodemographic categories and likelihood of having an ART birth. RESULT(S) Net of education, age, period, and marital status, the incidence rates of ART births are lower for black women (0.57 times; 95% CI, 0.52-0.62) and Hispanic women (0.67 times; 95% CI, 0.57-0.62) relative to white women's rates; for Asian women, the incidence rates are 1.21 times that of white women's rates. Further, the incidence rates of ART births are higher for women with more than a 4-year degree (2.08 times; 95% CI, 1.90-2.27) relative to women with a 4-year degree, and are lower for women with less education. Women who are married have an incidence rate of ART that is 5.72 times (95% CI, 5.37-6.09) that of unmarried women. The incidence rates for 2013-2016 are statistically significantly higher than for 2010 by a factor of 1.16 (95% CI, 1.02-1.31), 1.16 (95% CI, 1.03-1.31), 1.27 (95% CI, 1.12-1.43), and 1.51 (95% CI, 1.43-1.82), respectively. The educational differences in ART exist across all age groups from 20 to 49, but are the largest among the 35-39 and 40-44 age groups. CONCLUSION(S) Large differences in the risk of an ART birth and the proportion of births and the total fertility rate due to ART exist across period, age, race, education, and marital status groups in the United States. Current measures of ART births may disguise an unmet need for ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Tierney
- Department of Sociology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
| | - Yong Cai
- Department of Sociology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Effect of preconception low dose aspirin on pregnancy and live birth according to socioeconomic status: A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0200533. [PMID: 30998747 PMCID: PMC6472730 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Low socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and infertility. Low-dose aspirin (LDA) was shown to improve livebirth rates in certain subsets of women, and therefore, may impact pregnancy rates differentially by SES status. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to examine whether daily preconception-initiated LDA affects rates of pregnancy, livebirth, and pregnancy loss differently across strata of socioeconomic status (SES). This is a secondary analysis of The Effects of Aspirin in Gestation and Reproduction (EAGeR) Trial, a multisite, block- randomized, placebo-controlled trial conducted at four U.S. medical centers (n = 1,228, 2007–2012). Women attempting spontaneous conception with a history of pregnancy loss were randomly allocated preconception to 81mg of aspirin + 400mcg of folic acid (n = 615) or placebo + 400mcg of folic acid (n = 613). Study medication was administered for six menstrual cycles or until 36 weeks’ gestation if pregnancy was achieved. For this analysis, women were stratified by SES, which included income (low, mid, high) and a combined grouping of education and income (low-low, low-high, high-low, high-high). Log binomial models with robust variance estimated risks of pregnancy, livebirth, and pregnancy loss for LDA versus placebo. LDA increased pregnancy and livebirth rates (RR 1.23, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.45) in the high-income, but not mid- or low-income groups. LDA increased pregnancy rates in both the low education-low income group (RR 1.22, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.46) and the high education-high income group (RR 1.23, 95%CI: 1.06, 1.42), with no effect observed in mid-SES groupings. LDA, a low-cost and widely available treatment, may be particularly beneficial to women at the highest and lowest ends of the socioeconomic spectrum, though underlying mechanisms of this disparity are unclear. Confirming these findings and identifying factors which may modulate the effectiveness of LDA will ultimately facilitate personalized clinical care and improvements in population-level reproductive health. Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00467363.
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25
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Smith CA, de Lacey S, Chapman M, Ratcliffe J, Norman RJ, Johnson NP, Fahey P. The effects of acupuncture on the secondary outcomes of anxiety and quality of life for women undergoing IVF: A randomized controlled trial. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2019; 98:460-469. [DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A. Smith
- NICM Health Research Institute; Western Sydney University; Penrith NSW Australia
| | - Sheryl de Lacey
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences; Flinders University; Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Michael Chapman
- School of Women's & Children Health; University of New South Wales; IVF Australia; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Julie Ratcliffe
- Institute for Choice; Business School; University of South Australia; Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Robert J. Norman
- Robinson Research Institute; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
- Fertility SA; Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Neil P. Johnson
- Robinson Research Institute; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
- Repromed; Auckland New Zealand
| | - Paul Fahey
- School of Science and Health; Western Sydney University; Penrith NSW Australia
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Neumann K, Kayser J, Depenbusch M, Schultze-Mosgau A, Griesinger G. Can a quality-of-life assessment assist in identifying women at risk of prematurely discontinuing IVF treatment? A prospective cohort study utilizing the FertiQoL questionnaire. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2018; 298:223-229. [PMID: 29869088 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-018-4797-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed at assessing quality of life (QoL) by means of a validated measurement tool (FertiQoL) in German infertile patients before a first IVF/ICSI cycle with ancillary assessment of changes in FertiQoL scores after a failed first cycle and the predictive capacity of FertiQoL scores for treatment discontinuation. METHODS The validated FertiQoL tool consisting of 24 questions regarding fertility-specific aspects of QoL was used for this prospective cohort study conducted at a university affiliated IVF center in Germany. Female patients (n = 119) filled out the FertiQoL form and questionnaire on sociodemographic variables on initiation of a first- and second-cycle IVF/ICSI treatment, respectively. RESULTS On initiation of a first IVF/ICSI cycle, the mean scores (± standard deviation) for subscales emotional, mind-body, relational, and social items were 62 (± 19), 75 (± 17), 82 (± 13), and 78 (± 14), respectively; the total FertiQoL score was 73 (± 12). The mean total FertiQoL score at initiation of a first treatment cycle did not differ between patients who continued vs. discontinued treatment in case of no pregnancy achievement in the first cycle (73) (± 10) vs. 74 (± 14), p = 0.46). Furthermore, the mean total FertiQoL score did not change after an unsuccessful first IVF cycle (74 vs. 76, p = 0.46). CONCLUSIONS There was no statistical difference in a small sample size for FertiQoL scores between all groups. In this study, FertiQoL scores were, therefore, not usable to predict withdrawal from infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Neumann
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Luebeck, Germany
| | - Janna Kayser
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Luebeck, Germany
| | - Marion Depenbusch
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Luebeck, Germany
| | - Askan Schultze-Mosgau
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Luebeck, Germany
| | - Georg Griesinger
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Luebeck, Germany.
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Crawford NM, Hoff HS, Mersereau JE. Infertile women who screen positive for depression are less likely to initiate fertility treatments. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:582-587. [PMID: 28073974 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are infertile women who screen positive for depression less likely to initiate infertility treatments? SUMMARY ANSWER Infertile women who screen positive for depression are less likely to initiate treatment for infertility. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN Infertility imposes a psychological burden on many couples. Depression and anxiety have been demonstrated in ~40% of infertile women, which is twice that of fertile women. Further, the psychological burden associated with infertility treatment has been cited as a major factor for discontinuation of infertility care. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Prospective, observational study in a clinical-based cohort of 416 women who completed a questionnaire after the new patient visit, from January 2013 until December 2014 inclusive. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All new female infertility patients (n = 959) seen between January 2013 and December 2014 at University of North Carolina Fertility received an electronic questionnaire to screen for mental health disorders and to evaluate their perception of mental health disorders on infertility. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of 959 surveys sent, 416 women completed the questionnaire (43%). The prevalence screening positive for depression, using the NIH PROMIS screening tool, was 41%. Sixty-two percent of all women initiated infertility treatment, and of these, 81% did so within 4 months. In multivariate analysis, women who screened positive for depression had 0.55 times the odds of initiating treatment for infertility (95% CI: 0.31-0.95). Similarly, women who screened positive for depression had 0.58 times the odds of initiating infertility treatment within 4 months (95% CI: 0.35-0.97), which was the time of censoring from the most recent patient evaluated. Women who screened positive for depression were less likely to pursue treatment with oral medications or IVF (P = 0.01 and P = 0.03, respectively), as compared to women who did not screen positive for depression. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Questionnaire-based evaluations may result in a lower prevalence of psychological disorder as some participants feign emotional well-being. Although we did not identify differences in women who responded to our survey and those who did not, responder bias may still be present. In addition, infertility is a couple's disease. However, this study only included psychological evaluation of the female partner. We have no information about the women's previous treatment. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Screening for depression is important in the infertility patient population, as further evaluation and psychological interventions may improve compliance with fertility treatments, quality of life, and potentially, the overall chance of pregnancy. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie M Crawford
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, 4001 Old Campus Building, CB 7570, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Heather S Hoff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, 4001 Old Campus Building, CB 7570, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Jennifer E Mersereau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, 4001 Old Campus Building, CB 7570, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Couples' discontinuation of fertility treatments: a longitudinal study on demographic, biomedical, and psychosocial risk factors. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 34:217-224. [PMID: 27900611 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0844-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to explore the role of infertility-psychosocial variables on treatment discontinuation after controlling for demographic and biomedical variables in couples seeking reimbursed fertility treatment. METHODS A prospective study was conducted in 139 couples seeking fertility treatment. Between February 2010 and March 2011, participants completed measures of anxiety (STAI-State), depression (BDI-II), infertility-stress (FPI), and infertility coping strategies (COMPI-CSS). Medical data related to diagnosis, treatment, and discontinuation were collected in December 2013. A multiple logistic regression was performed to identify the predictors of discontinuation. RESULTS The discontinuation rate was 29.5%. Female education level, engagement in ART procedures, and female causation decreased the likelihood of treatment discontinuation, whereas female age and depression increased the likelihood of discontinuation. Female depression was the strongest predictor in this model. The model correctly identified 75.5% of cases. CONCLUSIONS Female age and female depression are associated with a higher likelihood of treatment discontinuation in couples seeking treatment. Reproductive health professionals should therefore inform couples about the link between the fertility treatment discontinuation and both female age and female depression. Couples in which female partners present clinically relevant depression should be referred to a mental health professional to prevent premature abandonment of fertility treatments and thus increase success rates.
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Pedro J, Frederiksen Y, Schmidt L, Ingerslev HJ, Zachariae R, Martins MV. Comparison of three infertility-specific measures in men and women going through assisted reproductive technology treatment. J Health Psychol 2016; 24:738-749. [PMID: 27881623 DOI: 10.1177/1359105316678669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We compared the psychometric properties of COMPI Fertility Problem Stress Scales, Fertility Problem Inventory, and Fertility Quality of Life Tool in 293 patients enrolled for assisted reproductive technology. COMPI Fertility Problem Stress Scales and Fertility Problem Inventory subscales presented higher internal consistency. COMPI Fertility Problem Stress Scales differentiated best between its domains. Fertility Problem Inventory revealed better concurrent validity. Fertility Quality of Life Tool presented better fit. While discrimination for depression was similar between measures, Fertility Quality of Life Tool was better at discriminating anxiety. Results suggest that while all compared measures are reliable and valid in assessing the psychosocial adjustment to infertility, the choice of measure should be based according to the assessment goals.
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Datta J, Palmer MJ, Tanton C, Gibson LJ, Jones KG, Macdowall W, Glasier A, Sonnenberg P, Field N, Mercer CH, Johnson AM, Wellings K. Prevalence of infertility and help seeking among 15 000 women and men. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2108-18. [PMID: 27365525 PMCID: PMC4991655 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 237] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the prevalence of infertility and of help seeking among women and men in Britain? SUMMARY ANSWER One in eight women and one in ten men aged 16–74 years had experienced infertility, defined by unsuccessfully attempting pregnancy for a year or longer, and little more than half of these people sought medical or professional help. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Estimates of infertility and help seeking in Britain vary widely and are not easily comparable because of different definitions and study populations. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A cross-sectional population survey was conducted between 2010 and 2012 with a sample of 15 162 women and men aged 16–74 years. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants completed the Natsal-3 questionnaire, using computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) and computer-assisted self-interview (CASI). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The reported prevalence of infertility was 12.5% (CI 95% 11.7–13.3) among women and 10.1% (CI 95% 9.2–11.1) among men. Increased prevalence was associated with later cohabitation with a partner, higher socio-economic status and, for those who had a child, becoming parents at older ages. The reported prevalence of help seeking was 57.3% (CI 95% 53.6–61.0) among women and 53.2% (CI 95% 48.1–58.1) among men. Help seekers were more likely to be better educated and in higher status occupations and, among those who had a child, to have become parents later in life. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION These data are cross-sectional so it is not possible to establish temporality or infer causality. Self-reported data may be subject to recall bias. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The study provides estimates of infertility and help seeking in Britain and the results indicate that the prevalence of infertility is higher among those delaying parenthood. Those with higher educational qualifications and occupational status are more likely to consult with medical professionals for fertility problems than others and these inequalities in help seeking should be considered by clinical practice and public health. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Funding was provided by grants from the Medical Research Council and the Wellcome Trust, with support from the Economic and Social Research Council and the Department of Health. AMJ is a Governor of the Wellcome Trust. Other authors have no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Datta
- Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - M J Palmer
- Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - C Tanton
- Research Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, Mortimer Market Centre, London WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - L J Gibson
- Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - K G Jones
- Research Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, Mortimer Market Centre, London WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - W Macdowall
- Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - A Glasier
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TY, UK Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - P Sonnenberg
- Research Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, Mortimer Market Centre, London WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - N Field
- Research Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, Mortimer Market Centre, London WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - C H Mercer
- Research Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, Mortimer Market Centre, London WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - A M Johnson
- Research Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, Mortimer Market Centre, London WC1E 6JB, UK
| | - K Wellings
- Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK
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Pasch LA, Holley SR, Bleil ME, Shehab D, Katz PP, Adler NE. Addressing the needs of fertility treatment patients and their partners: are they informed of and do they receive mental health services? Fertil Steril 2016; 106:209-215.e2. [PMID: 27018159 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the extent to which fertility patients and partners received mental health services (MHS) and were provided with information about MHS by their fertility clinics, and whether the use of MHS, or the provision of information about MHS by fertility clinics, was targeted to the most distressed individuals. DESIGN Prospective longitudinal cohort study. SETTING Five fertility practices. PATIENT(S) A total of 352 women and 274 men seeking treatment for infertility. INTERVENTION(S) No interventions administered. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Depression, anxiety, and MHS information provision and use. RESULT(S) We found that 56.5% of women and 32.1% of men scored in the clinical range for depressive symptomatology at one or more assessments and that 75.9% of women and 60.6% of men scored in the clinical range for anxiety symptomatology at one or more assessments. Depression and anxiety were higher for women and men who remained infertile compared with those who were successful. Overall, 21% of women and 11.3% of men reported that they had received MHS, and 26.7% of women and 24.1% of men reported that a fertility clinic made information available to them about MHS. Women and men who reported significant depressive or anxiety symptoms, even those with prolonged symptoms, were no more likely than other patients to have received information about MHS. CONCLUSION(S) Psychological distress is common during fertility treatment, but most patients and partners do not receive and are not referred for MHS. Furthermore, MHS use and referral is not targeted to those at high risk for serious psychological distress. More attention needs to be given to the mental health needs of our patients and their partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauri A Pasch
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, California.
| | - Sarah R Holley
- Department of Psychology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California
| | - Maria E Bleil
- Department of Family and Child Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Patricia P Katz
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Nancy E Adler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, California
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Holley SR, Pasch LA, Bleil ME, Gregorich S, Katz PK, Adler NE. Prevalence and predictors of major depressive disorder for fertility treatment patients and their partners. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:1332-9. [PMID: 25796319 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 01/25/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the prevalence and predictors of major depressive disorder (MDD) for women and their partners during the course of fertility treatment. DESIGN Prospective cohort study during an 18-month period. Participants completed interviews and questionnaires at baseline and at 4, 10, and 18 months of follow-up. SETTING Five community and academic fertility practices. PATIENT(S) A total of 174 women and 144 of their male partners who did not have a successful child-related outcome during the time frame of the study. INTERVENTION(S) No interventions administered. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The MDD was assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview Major Depression module, a structured diagnostic interview. Additional variables were assessed with self-report questionnaire measures. RESULT(S) Of the women 39.1% and of the men 15.3% met the criteria for MDD during the 18-month course of the study. A binary logistic covariate-adjusted model showed that, for both women and men, past MDD was a significant predictor of MDD during treatment. Past MDD further predicted significant risk for MDD during treatment after controlling for other well-established risk factors (i.e., baseline levels of depression, anxiety, and partner support). CONCLUSION(S) The MDD was highly prevalent for fertility treatment patients and their partners. Past MDD predicted risk for MDD during treatment, and it contributed to MDD risk more than other commonly assessed risk factors. This suggests that patients and their partners would benefit from being routinely assessed for a history of MDD before the start of treatment to best direct psychosocial support and interventions to those most in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Holley
- Department of Psychology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California.
| | - Lauri A Pasch
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Maria E Bleil
- Family and Child Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Steven Gregorich
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Patricia K Katz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Nancy E Adler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Van Dongen A, Huppelschoten AG, Kremer JA, Nelen WL, Verhaak CM. Psychosocial and demographic correlates of the discontinuation ofin vitrofertilization. HUM FERTIL 2015; 18:100-6. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2014.995240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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A "four-cycle program" improves the estimate of the cumulative pregnancy rate and increases the number of actual pregnancies in IUI treatment: a cohort study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2014; 176:173-7. [PMID: 24656656 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2014.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Revised: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To demonstrate that reduction of the cumulative dropout rate (CDR) improves the accuracy of the estimate of the cumulative pregnancy rate (CPR) in a set of four intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles ("four-cycle program") and increases the total number of pregnancies obtained. STUDY DESIGN Single-centre retrospective observational cohort study of couples who underwent IUI cycles at the Andros Day Surgery Clinic, Palermo, from 1997 to 2011. The main outcome measure was the calculation of the CPR, with life table analysis, firstly by giving the same probability of pregnancy to the dropouts as the patients who continued the treatment (usual method) and secondly by considering this probability null (conservative method). The difference between these two methods was used to verify the accuracy of the estimate. RESULT(S) In the 15 years, 924 couples underwent 2956 cycles carried out consecutively in a set of four cycles. The CDR was 16%. The CPR was 31.4% with the usual method and 29.1% with the conservative method. The difference between the two estimates was not significant, indicating a high reliability of the results and a good accuracy of the calculation. Furthermore, maintenance of a low CDR permits improvement of the CPR, as was demonstrated by considering scenarios with worse dropout rates. CONCLUSION(S) The "four-cycle program" results in a reduction in the CDR, allowing a better estimation of the CPR, and increases the number of actual pregnancies in IUI. The CPR should become the focus for reporting outcome rates in IUI cycles. Reduction of the dropout rate allows us to give the patient a more reliable and accurate estimate of the pregnancy rate.
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Kessler LM, Craig BM, Plosker SM, Reed DR, Quinn GP. Infertility evaluation and treatment among women in the United States. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1025-32. [PMID: 23849845 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Revised: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/24/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the characteristics of women seeking infertility evaluation and treatment. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey based on in-person interviews, followed by two-step hurdle analysis. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) 4,558 married or cohabitating women ages 25 to 44 years. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Likelihood of seeking a preliminary infertility evaluation and of seeking infertility treatment once evaluated, and the treatment type provided. RESULT(S) Of 623 women (13.7%) who reported seeking an infertility evaluation, 328 reported undergoing subsequent infertility treatment. Age at marriage, marital status, education, health insurance status, race/ethnicity, and religion were associated with the likelihood of seeking infertility evaluation. For example, the predicted probability that a non-white woman who married at age 25 will seek evaluation was 12%. This probability increased to 34% for white women with a graduate degree who had married at age 30. Among women who were evaluated, income, employment status, and ethnicity correlated strongly with the likelihood of seeking infertility treatment. Infertility drug therapy was the most frequent treatment used, and reproductive surgery and in vitro fertilization (IVF) were used the least often. CONCLUSION(S) The use of infertility services is not random. Understanding the sociodemographic factors correlated with use may assist new couples with family planning. Roughly 50% of the women evaluated for infertility progressed to treatment, and only a small proportion were treated with more advanced assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization. Future research aimed at improving access to effective health-care treatments within the boundaries of affordability is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence M Kessler
- Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; Department of Economics, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida.
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Role of Complementary and Alternative Medicine to Achieve Fertility in Uninsured Patients. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2013; 68:305-11. [DOI: 10.1097/ogx.0b013e318286f780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Eisenberg ML, Lathi RB, Baker VL, Westphal LM, Milki AA, Nangia AK. Frequency of the Male Infertility Evaluation: Data from the National Survey of Family Growth. J Urol 2013; 189:1030-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2012.08.239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2012] [Accepted: 08/13/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael L. Eisenberg
- Department of Urology, Stanford, California
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford, California
| | - Ruth B. Lathi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford, California
| | | | | | - Amin A. Milki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford, California
| | - Ajay K. Nangia
- Department of Urology, Kansas University School of Medicine, Kansas City, Kansas
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Wu AK, Elliott P, Katz PP, Smith JF. Time costs of fertility care: the hidden hardship of building a family. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:2025-30. [PMID: 23454007 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.01.145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2012] [Revised: 01/10/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the time that infertile couples spend seeking and utilizing fertility care. DESIGN Prospective cohort. SETTING Eight community and academic infertility practices. PATIENT(S) A total of 319 couples presenting for a fertility evaluation. INTERVENTION(S) Face-to-face and telephone interviews and questionnaires. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Participants recorded diaries of time spent on provider visits, travel, telephone, and miscellaneous activities. Participants also recorded time off from work due to the physical and mental stress related to fertility care. Linear regression was used to assess relationship between fertility characteristics and time spent pursuing care. RESULT(S) Diaries were completed by 319 subjects. Over an 18-month time period, the average time spent on fertility care was 125 hours, equating to 15.6 days, assuming an 8-hour workday. For couples utilizing cycle-based treatments (CBT), overall time spent pursuing care averaged 142 hours, versus 58 hours for couples using other therapies, with the majority of time spent on provider visits (73 hours). After multivariable adjustment for clinical and sociodemographic characteristics, possessing a college degree and intensity of fertility treatment were independently associated with increased time spent pursuing fertility care. Furthermore, couples that spent the most time on care were significantly more likely to experience fertility-related stress. CONCLUSION(S) Over the course of 18 months of observation, couples pursuing fertility treatment dedicated large amounts of time to attaining their family-building goals. This burden on couples adds to the already significant financial and emotional burdens of fertility treatment and provides new insight into the difficulties that these couples face.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex K Wu
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143-1695, USA
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Dhalwani NN, Fiaschi L, West J, Tata LJ. Occurrence of fertility problems presenting to primary care: population-level estimates of clinical burden and socioeconomic inequalities across the UK. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:960-8. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Gameiro S, Boivin J, Peronace L, Verhaak CM. Why do patients discontinue fertility treatment? A systematic review of reasons and predictors of discontinuation in fertility treatment. Hum Reprod Update 2012. [PMID: 22869759 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dms031.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chances of achieving parenthood are high for couples who undergo fertility treatment. However, many choose to discontinue before conceiving. A systematic review was conducted to investigate patients' stated reasons for and predictors of discontinuation at five fertility treatment stages. METHODS Six databases were systematically searched. Search-terms referred to fertility treatment and discontinuation. Studies reporting on patients' stated reasons for or predictors of treatment discontinuation were included. A list of all reasons for discontinuation presented in each study was made, different categories of reasons were defined and the percentage of selections of each category was calculated. For each predictor, it was noted how many studies investigated it and how many found a positive and/or negative association with discontinuation. RESULTS The review included 22 studies that sampled 21 453 patients from eight countries. The most selected reasons for discontinuation were: postponement of treatment (39.18%, postponement of treatment or unknown 19.17%), physical and psychological burden (19.07%, psychological burden 14%, physical burden 6.32%), relational and personal problems (16.67%, personal reasons 9.27%, relational problems 8.83%), treatment rejection (13.23%) and organizational (11.68%) and clinic (7.71%) problems. Some reasons were common across stages (e.g. psychological burden). Others were stage-specific (e.g. treatment rejection during workup). None of the predictors reported were consistently associated with discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS Much longitudinal and theory led research is required to explain discontinuation. Meanwhile, treatment burden should be addressed by better care organization and support for patients. Patients should be well informed, have the opportunity to discuss values and worries about treatment and receive advice to decide about continuing treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gameiro
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Gameiro S, Boivin J, Peronace L, Verhaak CM. Why do patients discontinue fertility treatment? A systematic review of reasons and predictors of discontinuation in fertility treatment. Hum Reprod Update 2012; 18:652-69. [PMID: 22869759 PMCID: PMC3461967 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dms031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 287] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chances of achieving parenthood are high for couples who undergo fertility treatment. However, many choose to discontinue before conceiving. A systematic review was conducted to investigate patients' stated reasons for and predictors of discontinuation at five fertility treatment stages. METHODS Six databases were systematically searched. Search-terms referred to fertility treatment and discontinuation. Studies reporting on patients' stated reasons for or predictors of treatment discontinuation were included. A list of all reasons for discontinuation presented in each study was made, different categories of reasons were defined and the percentage of selections of each category was calculated. For each predictor, it was noted how many studies investigated it and how many found a positive and/or negative association with discontinuation.
RESULTS The review included 22 studies that sampled 21 453 patients from eight countries. The most selected reasons for discontinuation were: postponement of treatment (39.18%, postponement of treatment or unknown 19.17%), physical and psychological burden (19.07%, psychological burden 14%, physical burden 6.32%), relational and personal problems (16.67%, personal reasons 9.27%, relational problems 8.83%), treatment rejection (13.23%) and organizational (11.68%) and clinic (7.71%) problems. Some reasons were common across stages (e.g. psychological burden). Others were stage-specific (e.g. treatment rejection during workup). None of the predictors reported were consistently associated with discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS Much longitudinal and theory led research is required to explain discontinuation. Meanwhile, treatment burden should be addressed by better care organization and support for patients. Patients should be well informed, have the opportunity to discuss values and worries about treatment and receive advice to decide about continuing treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gameiro
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Psychological distress and in vitro fertilization outcome. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:459-64. [PMID: 22698636 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2011] [Revised: 05/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine whether psychological distress predicts IVF treatment outcome as well as whether IVF treatment outcome predicts subsequent psychological distress. DESIGN Prospective cohort study over an 18-month period. SETTING Five community and academic fertility practices. PATIENT(S) Two hundred two women who initiated their first IVF cycle. INTERVENTION(S) Women completed interviews and questionnaires at baseline and at 4, 10, and 18 months' follow-up. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) IVF cycle outcome and psychological distress. RESULT(S) In a binary logistic model including covariates (woman's age, ethnicity, income, education, parity, duration of infertility, and time interval), pretreatment depression and anxiety were not significant predictors of the outcome of the first IVF cycle. In linear regression models including covariates (woman's age, income, education, parity, duration of infertility, assessment point, time since last treatment cycle, and pre-IVF depression or anxiety), experiencing failed IVF was associated with higher post-IVF depression and anxiety. CONCLUSION(S) IVF failure predicts subsequent psychological distress, but pre-IVF psychological distress does not predict IVF failure. Instead of focusing efforts on psychological interventions specifically aimed at improving the chance of pregnancy, these findings suggest that attention be paid to helping patients prepare for and cope with treatment and treatment failure.
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Peate M, Meiser B, Cheah BC, Saunders C, Butow P, Thewes B, Hart R, Phillips KA, Hickey M, Friedlander M. Making hard choices easier: a prospective, multicentre study to assess the efficacy of a fertility-related decision aid in young women with early-stage breast cancer. Br J Cancer 2012; 106:1053-61. [PMID: 22415294 PMCID: PMC3304428 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2012.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Revised: 01/27/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fertility is a priority for many young women with breast cancer. Women need to be informed about interventions to retain fertility before chemotherapy so as to make good quality decisions. This study aimed to prospectively evaluate the efficacy of a fertility-related decision aid (DA). METHODS A total of 120 newly diagnosed early-stage breast cancer patients from 19 Australian oncology clinics, aged 18-40 years and desired future fertility, were assessed on decisional conflict, knowledge, decision regret, and satisfaction about fertility-related treatment decisions. These were measured at baseline, 1 and 12 months, and were examined using linear mixed effects models. RESULTS Compared with usual care, women who received the DA had reduced decisional conflict (β=-1.51; 95%CI: -2.54 to 0.48; P=0.004) and improved knowledge (β=0.09; 95%CI: 0.01-0.16; P=0.02), after adjusting for education, desire for children and baseline uncertainty. The DA was associated with reduced decisional regret at 1 year (β=-3.73; 95%CI: -7.12 to -0.35; P=0.031), after adjusting for education. Women who received the DA were more satisfied with the information received on the impact of cancer treatment on fertility (P<0.001), fertility options (P=0.005), and rated it more helpful (P=0.002), than those who received standard care. CONCLUSION These findings support widespread use of this DA shortly after diagnosis (before chemotherapy) among younger breast cancer patients who have not completed their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Peate
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of NSW, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.
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Boivin J, Domar AD, Shapiro DB, Wischmann TH, Fauser BCJM, Verhaak C. Tackling burden in ART: an integrated approach for medical staff. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:941-50. [PMID: 22258661 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Discontinuation is a problem in fertility clinics. Many couples discontinue assisted reproductive technologies (ART) without achieving a live birth for reasons other than poor prognosis or the cost of treatment. Discontinuation has been attributed to the burden of treatment. The causes of burden can be broadly classified according to whether they originate in the patient, clinic or treatment. Interventions to alleviate these burdens include provision of comprehensive educational material, screening to identify highly distressed patients, provision of tailored coping tools and improvements in the clinic environment and medical interventions. Practical interventions to reduce the different causes of burden in ART exist, but further development and evaluation of the efficacy of these interventions requires more precise definition of terms and theory. In this paper, we propose a general integrated approach to cover different perspectives in dealing with burden in ART clinics. We firstly describe the integrated approach and present common sources of burden. We then describe interventions that could help reduce the burden in ART. Our paper is aimed at fertility clinic staff because of their day-to-day involvement with patients. However, this discussion should also be relevant to companies that develop treatments and to psychosocial experts. Reducing the burden of treatment should lead to improved outcomes, namely better quality of life during treatment and lower discontinuation rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacky Boivin
- Cardiff Fertility Studies Research Group, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Tower Building, Park Place, CF10 3AT, Cardiff, Wales, UK.
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Provoost V, Pennings G, De Sutter P, Gerris J, Van de Velde A, Dhont M. To continue or discontinue storage of cryopreserved embryos? Patients' decisions in view of their child wish. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:861-72. [PMID: 21247922 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cryopreservation of supernumerary embryos resulting from IVF treatment offers extra chances to conceive. The objective of this study is to describe patients' decisions to continue or discontinue storage of their embryos after a minimum storage period of 2 years. METHODS Female patients who had embryos stored at the Infertility Centre of the Ghent University Hospital (Belgium) were sent a mail questionnaire to be completed anonymously. RESULTS The questionnaire had a response rate of 79% (326/412). After an embryo storage period of at least 2 years, 40% of the couples who were still together wished to continue storage of their embryos. Half of these had no concrete plans for a transfer and wanted to postpone the decision or keep all options open. For those who decided to discontinue storage (60%), the main reason was the completion of their families. Despite the fact that the patients' child wish was the main factor in their storage decision, two groups of patients with distinct profiles made decisions that were inconsistent with their child wish: those who wanted to continue storage while not wanting a(nother) child (7% of those with no child wish), and those who wanted a(nother) child but decided to discontinue storage (25% of those with a child wish). Overall, these patients more often expressed emotional difficulties regarding this decision. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the importance of gaining more insight into patients' embryo storage decisions (along with their embryo disposition decisions) and into the emotional factors playing a role in patients' decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Provoost
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Blandijnberg 2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Katz P, Showstack J, Smith JF, Nachtigall RD, Millstein SG, Wing H, Eisenberg ML, Pasch LA, Croughan MS, Adler N. Costs of infertility treatment: results from an 18-month prospective cohort study. Fertil Steril 2010; 95:915-21. [PMID: 21130988 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2010] [Revised: 09/24/2010] [Accepted: 11/09/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine resource use (costs) by women presenting for infertility evaluation and treatment over 18 months, regardless of treatment pursued. DESIGN Prospective cohort study in which women were followed for 18 months. SETTING Eight infertility practices. PATIENT(S) Three hundred ninety-eight women recruited from infertility practices. INTERVENTION(S) Women completed interviews and questionnaires at baseline and after 4, 10, and 18 months of follow-up. Medical records were abstracted after 18 months to obtain details of services used. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Per-person and per-successful-outcome costs. RESULT(S) Treatment groups were defined as highest intensity treatment use. Twenty percent of women did not pursue cycle-based treatment; approximately half pursued IVF. Median per-person costs ranged from $1,182 for medications only to $24,373 and $38,015 for IVF and IVF-donor egg groups, respectively. Estimates of costs of successful outcomes (delivery or ongoing pregnancy by 18 months) were higher--$61,377 for IVF, for example--reflecting treatment success rates. Within the time frame of the study, costs were not significantly different for women whose outcomes were successful and women whose outcomes were not. CONCLUSION(S) Although individual patient costs vary, these cost estimates developed from actual patient treatment experiences may provide patients with realistic estimates to consider when initiating infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Katz
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143-0920, USA.
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Morris M, Oakley L, Maconochie N, Doyle P. An investigation of social inequalities in help-seeking and use of health services for fertility problems in a population-based sample of UK women. HUM FERTIL 2010; 14:16-22. [PMID: 21121703 DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2010.536609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Although infertility is an important public health problem, treatment can be expensive and resources are increasingly scarce. This study investigates possible inequalities in the use of medical services for fertility problems. We analysed data from a population-based survey for associations between socio-economic characteristics and help-seeking or use of services, to establish whether inequalities existed. More women of higher social status and education reported fertility problems, but there was no clear trend in help-seeking, investigations or treatments for infertility by social status and education level. New work is planned to investigate these issues more fully, particularly the role of family income.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Morris
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Keppel Street, London, UK.
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