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Abdelnabi SJ. Muslim Women's Experiences with Infertility: A Literature Review. MCN Am J Matern Child Nurs 2024; 49:211-218. [PMID: 38512137 DOI: 10.1097/nmc.0000000000001022] [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: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Infertility affects one in six women worldwide, playing a large role on an individual's psychosocial wellbeing and quality of life. The purpose of this review was to examine the experiences of Muslim women with infertility. METHODS A Prisma-guided literature review was conducted in Scopus, CINAHL, PubMed, Embase, PsychInfo, and Google Scholar. Sample inclusion criteria included research that examined the psychosocial consequences of infertility in women, used a qualitative design, were from a Muslim majority country or specified participants were Muslim, and were published in the English-language since 2013. Thematic analysis was used to synthesize the findings into themes. RESULTS Fourteen qualitative studies that explored the experiences of Muslim women with infertility were included for analysis. Women's responses were categorized into three focus areas: (1) emotional responses, (2) interpersonal relationships, and (3) social relationships. From these focus points, six overarching themes were identified that illustrated the challenges faced by Muslim women experiencing infertility: (1) identity crisis, (2) low self-esteem and depression, (3) abuse and harassment, (4) a weakened marital bond, (5) stigma, and (6) social exclusion and isolation . CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Review of the literature provided an initial entrée into understanding the experiences of Muslim women with infertility. Understanding the unique role of infertility within a religious community equips nurses and other providers with the knowledge that discussions surrounding infertility must be conducted with cultural sensitivity. Further research should be conducted to explore and offer culturally tailored educational materials that align with the religious preferences of Muslim women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samia Jamal Abdelnabi
- Samia Jamal Abdelnabi is a Research Fellow, National Clinician Scholars Program, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI. Dr. Abdelnabi can be reached at
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Saadedine M, Faubion SS, Kling JM, Kuhle C, Shufelt CL, Mara K, Enders F, Kapoor E. History of infertility and sexual dysfunction in midlife women: Is there a link? J Sex Med 2023; 20:1188-1194. [PMID: 37537692 PMCID: PMC10472170 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility has been linked with an increased risk of sexual dysfunction in reproductive-aged women, with longer periods of infertility associated with a greater risk. AIM The study's aim was to examine whether a history of infertility treatment in women is linked to sexual dysfunction during midlife. METHODS The cross-sectional study was conducted among sexually active women, between the ages of 45 and 65 years, who sought consultation at the women's health clinics at a US tertiary care center. History of infertility treatment was assessed with a single question that asked participants if they were treated for infertility in the past. The association between a history of infertility treatment and sexual dysfunction-which was diagnosed by a combination of Female Sexual Function Index score ≤26.55 and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised score ≥11-was assessed in a multivariable logistic regression model that adjusted for multiple confounders. OUTCOMES The primary outcome was sexual dysfunction in midlife women. RESULTS The analysis included 5912 women, with a mean age of 54.1 years. Nearly 16% of women reported receiving treatment for infertility. More than half the women (55%) had sexual dysfunction: 56.3% of those with previous fertility treatments and 54.4% of those without any fertility treatment (P = .3). Receiving treatment for infertility in the younger years did not significantly increase the odds of sexual dysfunction in midlife in univariate (odds ratio, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.94-1.24; P = .3) and multivariable analyses (odds ratio, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.96-1.29; P = .17). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS While infertility is known to be predictive of sexual dysfunction in women during their reproductive years, there was no association between a history of infertility treatment and sexual dysfunction in midlife women in the current study. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The study used validated questionnaires accounting for sexual complaints and distress and adjusted for multiple confounding factors. Limitations include the selection bias introduced by the study of women presenting for evaluation of sexual dysfunction, which may have been a result of factors stronger than the influence of infertility. Other limitations include the study's cross-sectional nature with suboptimal racial and ethnic representation. CONCLUSION Although infertility is commonly associated with female sexual dysfunction in women of reproductive age, the association was not present in midlife women in the current study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Saadedine
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, United States
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Stephanie S Faubion
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, United States
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Juliana M Kling
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Division of Women’s Health Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, 85259, United States
| | - Carol Kuhle
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Chrisandra L Shufelt
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, United States
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Kristin Mara
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Felicity Enders
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
| | - Ekta Kapoor
- Center for Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Women’s Health Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, United States
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Leeners B, Tschudin S, Wischmann T, Kalaitzopoulos DR. Sexual dysfunction and disorders as a consequence of infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:95-125. [PMID: 35900268 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexuality has a key impact on quality of life and on reproductive health. Infertility often results in sexual dysfunction. Despite this close association, addressing sexuality is not a standard component of infertility counselling, especially since in most countries sexual medicine is not a core element of specialist training. Even today, many doctors and patients consider discussing sexuality to be more challenging than other aspects of reproductive medicine. The present review addresses the complex consequences of infertility on sexuality. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Our goals were: (i) to identify the prevalence of sexual problems resulting from infertility, (ii) to evaluate characteristics of sexual difficulties and disorders resulting from infertility and (iii) to analyse factors involved in the complex association between sexual problems and infertility. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search for publications containing keywords related to sexual disorders and infertility was performed via PubMed, Web of Science and Psyndex. A total of 170 manuscripts published between January 1966 and April 2021 were identified after verification of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The reference lists in these manuscripts were searched for further relevant literature. Studies were reviewed for quality-related methodological details. OUTCOMES Couples diagnosed with infertility have an increased risk of sexual disorders. Loss of sexual desire and erectile dysfunction are among the most frequent sexual disorders resulting from infertility. Currently available literature reflects only fragmentarily the complexity of the diverse interactions. Sexuality plays out against the backdrop of interactions among personal, cultural, infertility-related and sexuality-related factors. Considering this complexity, it is crucial to evaluate individual profiles as well as partnership interactions to avoid a negative impact of infertility on a couple's sexual life. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Identifying sexual disorders as relevant considerations in the context of infertility and exploring their impact during the entire course of diagnosis and treatment constitute an important contribution to comprehensively care for the couples concerned. Counselling should focus on preventing the onset and aggravation of sexual disorders. As sexuality represents a major component of quality of life and of partnership, such support may improve not only the current overall wellbeing but also the chances of a satisfactory long-term partnership and family life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Leeners
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sibil Tschudin
- Division of Social Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tewes Wischmann
- Institute for Medical Psychology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Bagade T, Thapaliya K, Breuer E, Kamath R, Li Z, Sullivan E, Majeed T. Investigating the association between infertility and psychological distress using Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH). Sci Rep 2022; 12:10808. [PMID: 35752691 PMCID: PMC9233676 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15064-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects millions of people globally. Although an estimated 1 in 6 couples in Australia are unable to conceive without medical intervention, little is known about the mental health impacts of infertility. This study investigated how infertility impacts the mental health of women. The study used nationally representative Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) data. We analysed data from survey periods 2-8 conducted every three years between 2000 and 2018 for 6582 women born in 1973-78. We used a Generalised Equation Modelling (GEE) method to investigate the association of primary, secondary and resolved fertility status and psychological distress over time. Multiple measures were used to measure psychological distress: the (1) the mental health index subscale of the 36-item short form survey (SF-36), (2) the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10), (3) the Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale (GADanx) anxiety subscale; and a (4) composite psychological distress variable. About a third (30%) of women reported infertility at any of the survey rounds; a steady increase over 18 years from 1.7% at round 2 to 19.3% at round 8. Half of the women reporting primary or secondary infertility reported psychological distress, with the odds of having psychological distress was higher in women reporting primary (odds ratio (OR) 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06-1.45), secondary (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.10-1.46) or resolved infertility (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.05-1.26) compared to women reporting normal fertility status. Women with partners, underweight or higher BMI, smoking, and high-risk alcohol use had higher odds of psychological distress, whereas women in paid work had significantly lower odds of psychological distress (p < 0.001). Diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and other chronic physical illness were independently associated with higher odds of psychological distress. Infertility has a significant impact on mental health even after it is resolved. Frequent mental health assessment and a holistic approach to address the lifestyle factors should be undertaken during the treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanmay Bagade
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
| | - Kailash Thapaliya
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Registry of Senior Australians (ROSA), South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Erica Breuer
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | | | - Zhuoyang Li
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Sullivan
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Tazeen Majeed
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle (UON), University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
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McQuillan J, Passet-Wittig J, Greil AL, Bujard M. Is perceived inability to procreate associated with life satisfaction? Evidence from a German panel study. REPRODUCTIVE BIOMEDICINE & SOCIETY ONLINE 2022; 14:87-100. [PMID: 34877417 PMCID: PMC8627902 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbms.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Most studies of the psychosocial consequences of infertility have focused on those who seek medical treatment, leaving a research gap regarding the psychosocial consequences of perceived inability to procreate in the general population. Moreover, most studies are cross-sectional and the results are thus likely affected by omitted variable bias. Inspired by aspects of the Theory of Conjunctural Action, this study analysed 10 waves of data from the German Family Panel (pairfam) for women and men using fixed effects panel regression and including time-varying control variables suggested by theory and research. This study found that both women and men experienced lower life satisfaction in years when they perceived an inability to procreate. This association was not affected by the inclusion of relevant time-varying control variables. Furthermore, the association between perceived barriers to procreation and life satisfaction was found to differ depending on life circumstances and gender. Women with partners and men without partners had lower life satisfaction when they perceived an inability to procreate compared with when they did not. Women and men who intended to have a(nother) child had lower life satisfaction when they perceived an inability to procreate compared with when they did not. The association, however, was only significant for men. Somewhat surprisingly, women who perceived an inability to procreate also had lower life satisfaction when they were not intending to have a(nother) child. This study makes an important contribution to research on the psychosocial consequences of perceived infertility, and provides insights into why some people may pursue assisted reproductive technology for family creation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia McQuillan
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | | | - Arthur L. Greil
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, Alfred University, Alfred, NY, USA
| | - Martin Bujard
- Federal Institute for Population Research, Wiesbaden, Germany
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Gezinski LB, Carlsen B, Hawkins C. Motherhood and assisted reproduction in a religious context: Genes, stigma and supports in Utah, United States. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:1738-1746. [PMID: 33421226 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Six percent of cisgender (i.e. not transgender) women aged 15-44 are considered infertile in the United States, and 12% are unable to carry a pregnancy to term. For those who yearn to create a family despite these circumstances, assisted reproductive technology (ART) is an often-utilised resource. Though faith-based institutions have been referenced as a source of support for involuntarily childless adults, it is unclear how religious doctrine, especially that which prizes 'traditional' gender roles and genetic parenthood, may be a catalyst for distress. More research is needed to understand how the socio-cultural environment affects those who are unable to conceive without assistance. Therefore, the purpose of this research study was to understand the lived experiences of women who have utilised assisted reproduction in a particularly pronatalist, religious cultural context in the United States. From March to September 2017, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 cisgender women who had utilised ART. Data analysis was conducted in NVivo 10 and consisted of line-by-line analysis, identifying themes, coding categories and developing matrices to uncover relationships between themes and categories. The quest for motherhood was truly a journey for the study participants who experienced rumination and self-blame due to their inability to become pregnant. This was rooted in their socio-cultural context. Thus, the study findings suggest that culture and stigma are linked with women's distress regarding their inability to become pregnant and results in distancing from other women. Genetic parenthood was prized initially, but this desire decreased over time. While past research suggests that infertility strains relationships, our study found that the turmoil of infertility and assisted reproduction actually strengthened couple relationships. Counselling was described as particularly helpful, but it is needed throughout the assisted reproduction process. The inclusion of religion and spirituality, for those who identify as such, in counselling would be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Camille Hawkins
- Utah Infertility Resource Center, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Private Practice, Draper, Utah
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Chu X, Geng Y, Zhang R, Guo W. Perceived Social Support and Life Satisfaction in Infertile Women Undergoing Treatment: A Moderated Mediation Model. Front Psychol 2021; 12:651612. [PMID: 34122236 PMCID: PMC8194393 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.651612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Perceived social support is positively related to life satisfaction in infertile women. Whereas, the underlying mechanism of this relationship is unclear. The present study aimed to investigate whether self-compassion mediated the relationship of perceived social support with life satisfaction and whether infertility self-efficacy moderated the relationship between perceived social support and self-compassion in infertile women. A total of 290 infertile women in mainland China undergoing treatment completed an online survey assessing perceived social support, life satisfaction, self-compassion, and infertility self-efficacy. The results supported the mediation model that perceived social support was associated with life satisfaction via self-compassion. Besides, infertility self-efficacy moderated the relationship between perceived social support and self-compassion. Specifically, perceived social support displayed a stronger predictive effect on self-compassion when infertile women had higher level of infertility self-efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiying Chu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaoguo Geng
- School of Education, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruiping Zhang
- School of Education, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenjing Guo
- School of Education, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- School of Marxism, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Rasoulzadeh Bidgoli M, Latifnejad Roudsari R, Montazeri A. The effectiveness of a collaborative infertility counseling (CIC) on pregnancy outcome in women undergoing in vitro fertilization: a randomized trial. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:728. [PMID: 33238907 PMCID: PMC7687779 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-03417-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The optimal objective of infertility treatments is to increase pregnancy rate. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a collaborative counseling program on pregnancy rate in women undergoing in vitro treatment. Methods This was a parallel group randomized trial on a sample of 60 women attending to an infertility research center affiliated to Mashhad University of Medical Sciences for fertility treatment. Women were randomly assigned to an intervention or a control group. Then, a five-session program offered to the intervention group while the control group received nothing expect the usual care. The primary outcome for the study was positive pregnancy test at the end of study. Statistical analyses including independent samples t-test were performed to explore the data. Results The outcome analysis showed that there were no significant differences in pregnancy rate between the intervention and the control groups (P = 0.298). Also, there were no significant differences in follicle and embryo numbers between two groups. However, a significant difference was observed between two groups in terms of oocyte numbers where the intervention group had more oocyte (P = 0.014). Conclusion Overall the findings indicated that the collaborative infertility counseling did not improve treatment success in infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization. Trial registration IRCT201110267915N1. Registered 2014.07.25-Retrospectively registered (http://en.irct.ir/trial/8359).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboobeh Rasoulzadeh Bidgoli
- Trauma Nursing Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran. .,Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Robab Latifnejad Roudsari
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Montazeri
- Population Health Research Group, Health Metrics Research Center, Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research, ACECR, Tehran, Iran. .,Faculty of Humanity Sciences, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.
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Rossi V, Viozzi E, Tripodi F, Porpora M, Simonelli C, Nimbi F. Endometriosis, sexuality and satisfaction: A pilot study on women with and without infertility. SEXOLOGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2020.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Shreffler KM, Greil AL, Tiemeyer SM, McQuillan J. Is infertility resolution associated with a change in women's well-being? Hum Reprod 2020; 35:605-616. [PMID: 32112095 PMCID: PMC7105324 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is giving birth associated with improved subjective well-being among involuntarily childless women? SUMMARY ANSWER Resolution of infertility is associated with increased life satisfaction and self-esteem, but not with a decrease in depressive symptoms. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cross-sectional data and studies of treatment-seekers show that infertility is associated with lower subjective well-being. Childless women with infertility tend to report lower subjective well-being than women who experience secondary infertility, but a prospective study using a random sample of involuntarily childless women over time has not previously been conducted. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The sample for the current study includes all women without children who met medical criteria for infertility or perceived a fertility problem (N = 283) at baseline and who were interviewed in both waves (3 years apart) of the National Survey of Fertility Barriers (NSFB), in a random-digit dialing telephone survey. It is therefore possible to explore here whether there are differences in the association of infertility resolution and subjective well-being among women who do and do not perceive themselves as having a fertility problem. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Depressive symptoms (as measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale), self-esteem (as measured by a modified version of the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale) and life satisfaction (as measured by a modified version of the Satisfaction with Life Scale) were assessed for all 283 participants at both waves. For all three variables, change scores of 47 involuntarily childless women who resolved their infertility through a live birth were compared to the scores for the 236 women who remained childless. A number of variables shown to be associated with subjective well-being among infertile women were included as controls. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE No relationship between infertility resolution and change in depressive symptoms was observed (b = -0.04; P > 0.05). Involuntarily childless women who resolved their infertility improved in self-esteem (b = 0.74; P < 0.01) and life satisfaction (b = 1.06; P < 0.01). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Women were measured at only two time points. Only 47 women had a live birth between waves. While it is common practice to make causal interpretations based on panel data, such interpretations should be made with caution. In addition, the NSFB was conducted in the USA where medical expenditures are high and most fertility treatment expenses are not covered by insurance. Thus it may not be possible to generalize the findings to other modern industrialized societies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Knowing that resolution of infertility is associated with improved subjective well-being is important for infertile couples and infertility professionals alike. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported in part by NICHD grant R01-HD044144 and NIGMS grant P20-GM109097 from the National Institutes of Health. The authors have no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina M Shreffler
- Human Development and Family Science, Oklahoma State University, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Arthur L Greil
- Emeritus of Sociology, Alfred University, Alfred, NY, USA
| | - Stacy M Tiemeyer
- Human Development and Family Science, Oklahoma State University, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | - Julia McQuillan
- Sociology, The University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
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Luhmann M, Buecker S, Kaiser T, Beermann M. Nothing going on? Exploring the role of missed events in changes in subjective well-being and the Big Five personality traits. J Pers 2020; 89:113-131. [PMID: 31958347 DOI: 10.1111/jopy.12539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Missed events are defined as the nonoccurrence of expected major life events within a specified time frame. We examined whether missed events should be studied in research on growth by exploring the role of missed events for changes in subjective well-being (SWB) and the Big Five personality traits. METHOD The samples were selected from two nationally representative panel studies, the German Socioeconomic Panel Innovation Sample (SOEP-IS, total N = 6,638) and the Dutch Longitudinal Internet Studies for the Social Sciences panel (LISS, Ns between 4,262 and 5,749). Rank-order stability and mean-level change were analyzed using regression and mixed models. Type I error probability was reduced by using conservative thresholds for level of significance and minimal effect size. RESULTS Expected but missed events were more frequent than actually experienced events. For SWB, rank-order stability tended to be lower among those who experienced a missed event than among those who did not. For the Big Five personality traits, significant differences between those who did and those who did not experience a missed event were rare and unsystematic. CONCLUSION Missed events merit more attention in future research on growth and personality change, but the effects are probably weak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Luhmann
- Department of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Susanne Buecker
- Department of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Till Kaiser
- Department of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Mira Beermann
- Department of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Greil AL, McQuillan J, Burch AR, Lowry MH, Tiemeyer SM, Slauson-Blevins KS. Change in Motherhood Status and Fertility Problem Identification: Implications for Changes in Life Satisfaction. JOURNAL OF MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY 2019; 81:1162-1173. [PMID: 32981967 PMCID: PMC7518405 DOI: 10.1111/jomf.12595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the association between changes in life satisfaction and becoming a mother (or not) depends on fertility problem identification status. BACKGROUND Evidence and symbolic interactionist theory suggest that, for women who initially perceive a fertility barrier, gaining the valued identity "mother" should be associated with increases, and continuing to face a blocked goal (i.e. not becoming a mother) should be associated with decreases in life satisfaction. METHOD This study used the nationally representative two-wave National Survey of Fertility Barriers to conduct a change-score analysis with chained multiple imputation (MICE). The focal dependent variable was change in life satisfaction. Focal independent variables were Wave 1 life satisfaction, fertility problem identification status, and birth between waves, controlling for stability and change in relationship status, talking to a doctor about how to get pregnant, religiosity, social support, importance of parenthood, importance of leisure, importance of work success, and economic hardship. RESULTS Among women who perceived a fertility problem at both waves, becoming a mother was associated with increased life satisfaction and not becoming a mother was associated with decreased life satisfaction. Women who gained or lost a fertility problem perception between waves but did not have a live birth experienced a gain in life satisfaction between waves, suggesting the relevance of the duration of fertility problem perception for change in life satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur L Greil
- Division of Social Sciences, Alfred University, 1 Saxon Drive, Alfred, NY 14802
| | - Julia McQuillan
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, 709 Oldfather Hall. Lincoln, NE 68588-0324
| | - Andrea R Burch
- Division of Counseling and School Psychology, Alfred University, Alfred University, 1 Saxon Drive, Alfred, NY 14802
| | - Michele H Lowry
- Division of Social Sciences, Alfred University, 1 Saxon Drive, Alfred, NY 14802
| | - Stacy M Tiemeyer
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Oklahoma State University, 2121 Main Hall, Tulsa, OK
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Ying L, Wu X, Wu LH, Shu J, Loke AY. A Partnership and Coping Enhancement Program for Couples Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization Treatment: An Intervention Study. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2018; 44:533-551. [PMID: 29297779 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2017.1420716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This is a feasibility study to examine the effects of a partnership and coping enhancement program (PCEP) on improving the psychological well-being and marital functions of couples undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment. A total of 100 couples were recruited consecutively and assigned to a PCEP intervention group or a routine care control group. The couples in the PCEP group received an additional face-to-face, couple-based, 90-minute session on enhancing partnership and coping on the day of the embryo transfer (ET). The outcome measures were assessed at baseline (T0), 10 days after the ET (T1), and one month after the ET (T2). The level of anxiety of the women was lower in the intervention than in the control group at T1. Significant improvements in partnership and dyadic coping were seen in women at T2. The men of infertile couples reported a significant improvement in the scores for partnership at T2. The PCEP had no significant effects on marital satisfaction and marital adjustment for both the females and males of the infertile couples. The findings indicated that the PCEP is feasible and acceptable. Before a larger simple-size randomized controlled trial with participants drawn from multiple reproductive medical centers is conducted to further confirm its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Ying
- a School of Nursing , Zhejiang Chinese Medical University , Hangzhou , Zhejiang , China
- b School of Nursing , The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hong Kong , China
| | - Xiangli Wu
- c Department of Reproductive Endocrinology , Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital , Hangzhou , Zhejiang , China
| | - Lai Har Wu
- b School of Nursing , The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hong Kong , China
| | - Jing Shu
- c Department of Reproductive Endocrinology , Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital , Hangzhou , Zhejiang , China
| | - Alice Yuen Loke
- b School of Nursing , The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hong Kong , China
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Leeners B, Wischmann T, Tschudin S. Unerfüllter Kinderwunsch und Sexualität. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-017-0142-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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15
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Latifnejad Roudsari R, Rasoulzadeh Bidgoli M. The Effect of Collaborative Infertility Counseling on Marital Satisfaction in Infertile Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nurs Midwifery Stud 2017. [DOI: 10.17795/nmsjournal36723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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16
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The Effect of Collaborative Infertility Counseling on Marital Satisfaction in Infertile Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nurs Midwifery Stud 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/nmsjournal.36723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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17
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Winkelman WD, Katz PP, Smith JF, Rowen TS. The Sexual Impact of Infertility Among Women Seeking Fertility Care. Sex Med 2016; 4:e190-7. [PMID: 27165191 PMCID: PMC5005306 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Infertility affects approximately 6.7 million women in the United States. Couples with infertility have significantly more anxiety, depression, and stress. This is compounded by the fact that almost 40% of couples undergoing assisted reproduction technology still cannot conceive, which can have an ongoing effect on quality of life, marital adjustment, and sexual impact. Aim To assess the sexual impact of infertility in women undergoing fertility treatment. Methods This study is a cross-sectional analysis of women in infertile couples seeking treatment at academic or private infertility clinics. Basic demographic information was collected. Respondents were surveyed regarding sexual impact and perception of their infertility etiology. Multivariate regression analyses were used to identify factors independently associated with increased sexual impact. Main Outcome Measure Sexual impact of perceived fertility diagnosis. Results In total, 809 women met the inclusion criteria, of whom 437 (54%) agreed to participate and 382 completed the sexual impact items. Most of the infertility was female factor only (58.8%), whereas 30.4% of infertility was a combination of male and female factors, 7.3% was male factor only, and 3.5% was unexplained infertility. In bivariate and multivariate analyses, women who perceived they had female factor only infertility reported greater sexual impact compared with woman with male factor infertility (P = .01). Respondents who were younger than 40 years experienced a significantly higher sexual impact than respondents older than 40 years (P < .01). When stratified by primary and secondary infertility, respondents with primary infertility overall reported higher sexual impact scores. Conclusion In women seeking fertility treatment, younger age and female factor infertility were associated with increased sexual impact and thus these women are potentially at higher risk of sexual dysfunction. Providers should consider the role young age and an infertility diagnosis plays in a women’s sexual well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- William D Winkelman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, Irene Betty Moore Women's Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Patricia P Katz
- Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - James F Smith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, Irene Betty Moore Women's Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Urology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tami S Rowen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, Irene Betty Moore Women's Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Abstract
Infertility and perinatal loss are common, and associated with lower quality of life, marital discord, complicated grief, major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Young women, who lack social supports, have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss or a history of trauma and / or preexisting psychiatric illness are at a higher risk of experiencing psychiatric illnesses or symptoms after a perinatal loss or during infertility. It is especially important to detect, assess, and treat depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric symptoms because infertility or perinatal loss may be caused or perpetuated by such symptoms. Screening, psychoeducation, provision of resources and referrals, and an opportunity to discuss their loss and plan for future pregnancies can facilitate addressing mental health concerns that arise. Women at risk of or who are currently experiencing psychiatric symptoms should receive a comprehensive treatment plan that includes the following: (1) proactive clinical monitoring, (2) evidence-based approaches to psychotherapy, and (3) discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives of medication treatment during preconception and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amritha Bhat
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Washington, Box 35650, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| | - Nancy Byatt
- Departments of Psychiatry and Obstetrics and Gynecology, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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The Experience of Chinese Couples Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization Treatment: Perception of the Treatment Process and Partner Support. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0139691. [PMID: 26431545 PMCID: PMC4592197 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0139691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Couples undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Treatment suffer as dyads from the stressful experience of the painful treatment and the fear that the IVF cycle will fail. They are likely to report that their marital relationship has become unstable due to the prolonged period of treatment. Methods This is a qualitative study that was conducted to explore the experiences that Chinese couples have had with IVF treatment, especially their perceptions of the process and the support between couples. Results The interviews revealed that couples suffered from the process, experiencing physical and emotional pain, struggling with the urgency and inflexibility of bearing a child, and experiencing disturbances in their daily routines and work. The participants described how they endured the hardships as a couple and how it affected their relationship. The couples felt that sharing feelings and supporting each other contribute to psychological well-being and improves the marital relationship. They also identified some unfavorable aspects in their partner relationship. They were ambivalent about receiving social support from friends and family members. Conclusions With the couples indicating that the support that they received from each other affected their experience during the treatment process, it is suggested that a supportive intervention that focuses on enhancing the partnership of the couples and dealing with their inflexibility on the issue of bearing a child might result in improvements in the psychological status and marital relationship of infertile couples undergoing IVF treatment.
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Banz-Jansen C. Zusammenhang von Stress bei vergeblicher Kinderwunschbehandlung und Beziehungsstatus. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-015-0008-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Ying L, Loke AY. An Analysis of the Concept of Partnership in the Couples Undergoing Infertility Treatment. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2015; 42:243-256. [PMID: 25774425 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2015.1010676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The elements of a partnership in the couples undergoing infertility treatment are not well understood. This article aims to fill the gap by using Rodger's evolutionary method of concept analysis. The attributes of the concept partnership that were identified are a process of joint hardship, sharing, intracouple communication, and mutual support. The antecedents are love and attraction for each other, agreement, and interpersonal skills. The consequences are marital benefit, improvement in psychological status, and quality of life. A middle-range model for partnership in relationship to infertile couples is proposed. The understanding of the phenomenon of partnership will enable the researchers to develop interventions, identify the appropriate assessment instruments, and to determine directions for future research on effort to support infertile couples through their hardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Ying
- a School of Nursing , The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hong Kong , China
- b School of Nursing , Zhejiang Chinese Medical University , Hangzhou , Zhejiang , China
| | - Alice Yuen Loke
- a School of Nursing , The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hong Kong , China
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Martins MV, Costa P, Peterson BD, Costa ME, Schmidt L. Marital stability and repartnering: infertility-related stress trajectories of unsuccessful fertility treatment. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1716-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Revised: 08/28/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Asazawa K, Mori A. Development of a partnership causal model for couples undergoing fertility treatment. Jpn J Nurs Sci 2014; 12:208-21. [PMID: 25302746 DOI: 10.1111/jjns.12061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The goals of this study were to develop a partnership causal model and verify the model's fitness for couples undergoing fertility treatment. METHODS A purposive sample of 1004 consenting participants (502 couples) undergoing fertility treatment was selected from five fertility clinics across Japan. A mailed self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The partnership causal model was examined with structural equation modeling. RESULTS A total of 565 questionnaires were returned (56.3%) and the number of valid responses was 466 (46.4%). The factor "medical professionals' support (nurses and physicians)" influenced the couples' "partnership" (β = 0.16) and had a direct effect on the men's quality of life (QOL) and an indirect effect on the women's QOL (β = 0.20). Couples' partnership had a significant impact on couples' QOL (β = 0.20) and on "satisfaction in their relationship with their partner" (β = 0.48). The multi-population path analysis revealed that married couples influenced each other's perceptions of their partnership (men, β = 0.84; women, β = 0.88). Additionally, the spouse's partnership influenced both individual's QOL (men, β = 0.77; women, β = 0.77) and the satisfaction with the relationship (men, β = 0.46; women, β = 0.59). The participants' "distress" significantly and negatively affected the participants' QOL. CONCLUSION The results revealed that for a couple undergoing fertility treatments, a strong partnership maintains their QOL, and this could decrease the couples' distress (particularly in women). Partnership was also related to the variability of "medical professionals' support".
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akiko Mori
- St Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
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McLindon LA, Beckmann M, Flenady V, McIntyre HD, Chapman M. Women's views of a fertility awareness and hormonal support approach to subfertility. HUM FERTIL 2013; 16:252-7. [PMID: 24171651 DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2013.843791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the satisfaction among subfertile women of a fertility awareness-based approach, including hormonal therapy to achieve a pregnancy by natural conception. Eighty four women attending a natural fertility service completed a postal questionnaire exploring (1) the acceptability of the sympto-thermal method and (2) the acceptability of using hormone support. Acceptability rates for the fertility charting, clinical service and clinical care were 64.9-91.6%. Acceptability rates were higher in women who did conceive or had experienced past recurrent miscarriages. Taking hormonal luteal support, by any method, was more acceptable for women over 35 years compared to those under 35 years (100% vs. 69.4%, p = 0.014). Vaginal pessaries were the preferred route of administration. The use of a fertility awareness-based method appears to be acceptable amongst subfertile women intending to conceive naturally. Most women using such a method for conception would be open to the use of hormonal support during the fertility cycle or early pregnancy.
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Schanz S, Häfner HM, Ulmer A, Fierlbeck G. Quality of life in men with involuntary childlessness: long-term follow-up. Andrologia 2013; 46:731-7. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S. Schanz
- Department of Dermatology; Eberhard Karl University; Tübingen Germany
| | - H.-M. Häfner
- Department of Dermatology; Eberhard Karl University; Tübingen Germany
| | - A. Ulmer
- Department of Dermatology; Eberhard Karl University; Tübingen Germany
| | - G. Fierlbeck
- Department of Dermatology; Eberhard Karl University; Tübingen Germany
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