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Darolia S, Ghosh D. Importance of Personality Factors in Determining the Psychological Consequences of Infertility: A Systematic Review. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2021; 49:708-723. [PMID: 34814759 DOI: 10.1177/10901981211057109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The diagnosis of infertility not only involves biological but the psychosocial links have also been established. Individual difference variables, such as personality and temperament have been found playing prominent role in modifying the psychological and biological aspects of infertility. This systematic review aimed to examine evidence-based research on the role of personality traits in determining vulnerability to stress in infertility, understand the gender-based differences, and deliver suggestions for future researches. METHOD The search for studies relating to the variables was accomplished using various electronic databases. The search was kept limited to a time span of about 20 years, that is, from January 2000 to April 2020. Additional researches were collected from library source and others were retrieved by contacting experts. Studies were selected on the basis of a predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and quality of the studies was also taken into account. RESULTS The search of studies through above methods was fruitful in identifying 23 studies including six longitudinal and prospective studies, and 17 cross-sectional studies covering both individual- and model-based personality attributes related findings. The overall quality ratings of the studies ranged from fair to good. CONCLUSION The review revealed that personality factors such as neuroticism, harm avoidance, and psychoticism are the potential risk factors, whereas optimism has a protective impact in the context of fertility disorders. The long-term impact of personality on infertility needs further exploration. Trait modification interventions during the treatment of infertility were also suggested in the light of previous findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Debasruti Ghosh
- Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University, Muzaffarpur, Bihar, India
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Furmli H, Seeto RA, Hewko SL, Dalfen A, Jones CA, Murphy KE, Bocking A. Maternal Mental Health in Assisted and Natural Conception: A Prospective Cohort Study. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2019; 41:1608-1615. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Massarotti C, Gentile G, Ferreccio C, Scaruffi P, Remorgida V, Anserini P. Impact of infertility and infertility treatments on quality of life and levels of anxiety and depression in women undergoing in vitro fertilization. Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:485-489. [PMID: 30612477 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2018.1540575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate levels of anxiety and depression in women, correlated with infertility per se and with infertility treatments, highlighting predictors of higher levels of distress. Two validated standardized questionnaires, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Fertility Quality of Life (FertiQoL), were administered to 89 women both before their first cycle of infertility treatment and again at the end of the ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Women's levels of anxiety were significantly higher before the treatment than during the treatment itself. Stratifying the women in three groups based on principal cause of infertility (male infertility, female infertility, or both male and female), we found significantly higher levels of anxiety and general distress in patients under treatment for female infertility. Higher anxiety levels in our sample before the treatment are probably an effect of not knowing what they are expected to do to solve their problem. Moreover, when the cause of infertility is exclusively female, women experience higher levels of anxiety and general distress both before and during the treatment, probably correlated to a sense of guilt. These data help the treating physician to better counsel patients and to provide a more focused psychological support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Massarotti
- a Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Genova , Genova , Italy
- b Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit , Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genova , Italy
| | - Giulia Gentile
- c Midwifery Course , University of Genova , Genova , Italy
| | - Chiara Ferreccio
- a Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Genova , Genova , Italy
- b Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit , Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genova , Italy
| | - Paola Scaruffi
- b Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit , Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genova , Italy
| | - Valentino Remorgida
- a Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Genova , Genova , Italy
| | - Paola Anserini
- a Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Genova , Genova , Italy
- b Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit , Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genova , Italy
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Kim KH, Jang S, Lee JA, Go HY, Jung J, Park S, Lee MS, Ko SG. Characteristics and Outcomes of Female Infertility Treatment Programs Using Traditional Medicine in Korea: A Multisite Analysis. J Altern Complement Med 2018; 24:570-577. [PMID: 29565635 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2016.0384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infertility has long been recognized as a treatable disease, and complementary and alternative medicine treatments, such as acupuncture and moxibustion, have been used in Korea and China. This study describes female infertility treatment programs that used traditional Korean medicine (TKM) and were conducted by local governments in Korea and evaluates its effectiveness and safety. METHODS The authors officially requested related information from the report of the infertility treatment programs and related sources from 2006 to 2016 from the Health & Welfare Ministry of Korea and the Association of Korean Medicine (AKOM). Additional information was obtained from six Korean databases. Data including basic information about the programs, participant information, interventions, and outcomes were abstracted. RESULTS A total of 9 reports, including multiple years of data from 6 programs (total 13 programs), were identified. In these 13 programs, a total of 1023 female subjects participated, and 205 of the 887 subjects who completed the program reported a successful pregnancy, indicating a 23.1% pregnancy rate. The programs lasted 3-9 months, and interventional elements, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, fumigation, and massage, were identified. Significant adverse effects were not reported. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that infertility treatment programs with TKM interventions exhibited a positive effect on pregnancy in females with infertility. Thus, the infertility treatment programs with TKM interventions are expected to be useful and might serve as the primary treatment before assisted reproduction techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyeong Han Kim
- 1 Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine , Woosuk University, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Soobin Jang
- 2 Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Ah Lee
- 3 Department of Korean Internal Medicine, College of Korean Medicine , Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Yeon Go
- 4 Internal Medicine College of Korean Medicine , Semyung University, Chungju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeeyoun Jung
- 2 Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunju Park
- 5 Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine , Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- 2 Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- 6 Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine , Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Gonen L, Bokek-Cohen Y. Valuing the invaluable: Do emotional experiences during fertility treatments affect the willingness to pay for them? EUROPEAN REVIEW OF APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY-REVUE EUROPEENNE DE PSYCHOLOGIE APPLIQUEE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.erap.2018.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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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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Ying L, Wu LH, Loke AY. Gender differences in emotional reactions to in vitro fertilization treatment: a systematic review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:167-79. [PMID: 26712577 PMCID: PMC4759000 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0638-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purposes of this paper are to provide a comprehensive picture of men and women's emotional reactions to infertility treatment, specifically In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) pursued by heterosexual couples, and to identify any differences between the genders. METHODS Nonexperimental studies exploring the psychological effects of IVF treatment on infertile couples were included. Six electronic databases were used to conduct a systematic search from the years 2000 to 2014. The references of the articles selected for review and other related systematic reviews were also screened to retrieve additional relevant articles. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. Descriptive analysis was adopted to synthesize the results. RESULTS A total of 22 quantitative and 4 qualitative studies were identified and included in this review. Although both men and women experienced psychological distress during the treatment, gender differences existed. Women had elevated anxiety and depression levels prior to the treatment, which became even higher on the day of the oocyte retrieval, pre- and post embryo transfer, and during the waiting period before the pregnancy test. Men of the infertile couples reported elevated depression scores before treatment, which usually increased during the time spent waiting for the outcome of the IVF treatment. Both men and women had lower scores on positive affect before the pregnancy test. A failed IVF cycle had long-term negative psychological consequences for both spouses. CONCLUSIONS The results of this review pointed to the need for a couple-based support program, aimed at improving the psychological well-being of couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Ying
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
- School of Nursing, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Lai Har Wu
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Alice Yuen Loke
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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Gameiro S, Boivin J, Dancet E, de Klerk C, Emery M, Lewis-Jones C, Thorn P, Van den Broeck U, Venetis C, Verhaak CM, Wischmann T, Vermeulen N. ESHRE guideline: routine psychosocial care in infertility and medically assisted reproduction-a guide for fertility staff. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2476-85. [PMID: 26345684 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Based on the best available evidence in the literature, what is the optimal management of routine psychosocial care at infertility and medically assisted reproduction (MAR) clinics? SUMMARY ANSWER Using the structured methodology of the Manual for the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Guideline Development, 120 recommendations were formulated that answered the 12 key questions on optimal management of routine psychosocial care by all fertility staff. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN The 2002 ESHRE Guidelines for counselling in infertility has been a reference point for best psychosocial care in infertility for years, but this guideline needed updating and did not focus on routine psychosocial care that can be delivered by all fertility staff. STUDY, DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This guideline was produced by a group of experts in the field according to the 12-step process described in the ESHRE Manual for Guideline Development. After scoping the guideline and listing a set of 12 key questions in PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome) format, thorough systematic searches of the literature were conducted; evidence from papers published until April 2014 was collected, evaluated for quality and analysed. A summary of evidence was written in a reply to each of the key questions and used as the basis for recommendations, which were defined by consensus within the guideline development group (GDG). Patient and additional clinical input was collected during the scoping and the review phase of the guideline development. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The guideline group, comprising psychologists, two medical doctors, a midwife, a patient representative and a methodological expert, met three times to discuss evidence and reach consensus on the recommendations. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE THE GUIDELINE PROVIDES 120 recommendations that aim at guiding fertility clinic staff in providing optimal evidence-based routine psychosocial care to patients dealing with infertility and MAR. The guideline is written in two sections. The first section describes patients' preferences regarding the psychosocial care they would like to receive at clinics and how this care is associated with their well-being. The second section of the guideline provides information about the psychosocial needs patients experience across their treatment pathway (before, during and after treatment) and how fertility clinic staff can detect and address these. Needs refer to conditions assumed necessary for patients to have a healthy experience of the fertility treatment. Needs can be behavioural (lifestyle, exercise, nutrition and compliance), relational (relationship with partner if there is one, family friends and larger network, and work), emotional (well-being, e.g. anxiety, depression and quality of life) and cognitive (treatment concerns and knowledge). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We identified many areas in care for which robust evidence was lacking. Gaps in evidence were addressed by formulating good practice points, based on the expert opinion of the GDG, but it is critical for such recommendations to be empirically validated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The evidence presented in this guideline shows that providing routine psychosocial care is associated with or has potential to reduce stress and concerns about medical procedures and improve lifestyle outcomes, fertility-related knowledge, patient well-being and compliance with treatment. As only 45 (36.0%) of the 125 recommendations were based on high-quality evidence, the guideline group formulated recommendations to guide future research with the aim of increasing the body of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gameiro
- Cardiff Fertility Studies Research Group, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, CF10 3AT Cardiff, UK
| | - J Boivin
- Cardiff Fertility Studies Research Group, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, CF10 3AT Cardiff, UK
| | - E Dancet
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - C de Klerk
- Department of Psychiatry, Section Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus MC University Medical Centre, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - M Emery
- Centre for Medically Assisted Procreation-CPMA, CH-1003 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - P Thorn
- Practice for Couple and Family Therapy, 64546 Moerfelden, Germany
| | - U Van den Broeck
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - C Venetis
- Women's and Children's Health, St George Hospital, University of New South Wales, NSW 2217 Sydney, Australia
| | - C M Verhaak
- Department of Psychology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - T Wischmann
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - N Vermeulen
- European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology, 1852 Grimbergen, Belgium
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Cannabinoids for Chronic Pain, Mediterranean Diet and Cognitive Function; Vitamin E and Selenium for Cataract Prevention; Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Primary Dysmenorrhea; Massage Therapy and In Vitro Fertilization. Explore (NY) 2015; 11:489-93. [PMID: 26525669 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2015.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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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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Kaartinen N, Das P, Kananen K, Huhtala H, Tinkanen H. Can repeated IVF-ICSI-cycles be avoided by using blastocysts developing from poor-quality cleavage stage embryos? Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 30:241-7. [PMID: 25596905 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Revised: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In many clinics, good-quality embryos are selected for embryo transfer and cryopreservation at the cleavage stage, and poor-quality embryos are discarded. The aim of this retrospective study was to examine how many repeated IVF cycles could be avoided by culturing the cleavage stage poor-quality embryos to blastocyst stage and transferring them after vitrification and warming (604 IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection [IVF-ICSI] cycles were included). Poor-quality cleavage stage embryos not eligible for transfer or cryopreservation were cultured until day 5 or 6, and those developing to the blastocyst stage were vitrified. The rate of vitrified blastocysts and clinical pregnancy and delivery rate of the warmed blastocysts was evaluated. The effect of the extended culture on the cumulative delivery rate, and the number of avoided new treatment cycles was calculated. The surplus blastocysts resulted in clinical pregnancy, spontaneous abortion and delivery rates of 24.6%, 27.3% and 17.2% respectively. The use of surplus blastocysts raised cumulative delivery rate from 43% to 47% and 53 repeated new cycles were avoided. This study shows that the cumulative delivery rate can be increased, and repeated IVF-ICSI treatments avoided by using blastocysts developing from poor-quality cleavage stage embryos, which otherwise would have been discarded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noora Kaartinen
- Tampere University Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tampere University, Teiskontie 35, Tampere 33521, Finland.
| | - Pia Das
- Tampere University Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tampere University, Teiskontie 35, Tampere 33521, Finland
| | - Kirsi Kananen
- Infertility Clinic Ovumia Ltd Biokatu 12, 33520 Tampere
| | - Heini Huhtala
- School of Health Sciences, Tampere University Medisiinarinkatu 3, 33520 Tampere
| | - Helena Tinkanen
- Tampere University Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tampere University, Teiskontie 35, Tampere 33521, Finland
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Cserepes RE, Kőrösi T, Bugán A. [Characteristics of infertility-specific quality of life in Hungarian couples]. Orv Hetil 2014; 155:783-8. [PMID: 24819187 DOI: 10.1556/oh.2014.29867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Experiencing involuntary childlessness has a great impact on couples' quality of life. AIM The aim of the authors was to examine the correlations among infertility-specific quality of life and depression on the level of individuals and couples. METHOD 126 couples in five fertility centers in Hungary filled out the FertiQoL and Beck Depression Inventory and answered some sociodemographic questions. RESULTS In gender comparison, women reported about more depressive symptoms and poorer quality of life than men. Both in men and women, the higher depression level correlated with lower level of quality of life. Moreover, the presence of more depressive symptoms in women was related to men's poorer quality of life. CONCLUSIONS The results show that differences may exist in affective responses to infertility between women and men and that female affective problems take effects on the level of the couple relationship. These findings may be useful in psychosocial support of the couples facing infertility, especially in couple counselling or couple therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Réka Eszter Cserepes
- Debreceni Egyetem, Népegészségügyi Kar Magatartástudományi Intézet Debrecen Nagyerdei krt. 98. 4032
| | | | - Antal Bugán
- Debreceni Egyetem, Népegészségügyi Kar Magatartástudományi Intézet Debrecen Nagyerdei krt. 98. 4032
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Reis S, Xavier MR, Coelho R, Montenegro N. Psychological impact of single and multiple courses of assisted reproductive treatments in couples: a comparative study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2013; 171:61-6. [PMID: 23928476 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2013.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2013] [Revised: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the psychological impact on levels of anxiety and depression in couples who, confronted with the diagnosis of infertility, propose to carry out ART; to evaluate and compare state-trait anxiety and depression levels in couples undergoing ART treatments for the first time and repeatedly, and to verify gender differences. STUDY DESIGN In this prospective study in the Medically Assisted Reproduction Unit of the Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal, 89 couples diagnosed with infertility were divided into two groups: (1) couples starting ART for the first time (43), and (2) couples pursuing ART repeatedly (46). Participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-Form Y (STAI-Y), prior to their first or subsequent treatment cycle. RESULTS Couples pursuing ART for the first time show higher levels of state-anxiety compared to couples who repeatedly carry out ART (p < 0.05). Levels of depression are higher in couples who repeatedly carry out ART (p < 0.05). In both study groups, women and men have higher levels of state-anxiety compared to trait-anxiety (p < 0.05). With respect to depression, there are significant differences between genders in both groups, showing higher values in women compared to men (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The results show that there is room to tailor psychological interventions for the specific story of each couple, but we emphasize the importance and need for more studies to support these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salomé Reis
- Department of Psychiatry, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal.
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Brod M, Fennema H. Validation of the controlled ovarian stimulation impact measure (COSI): assessing the patient perspective. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2013; 11:130. [PMID: 23902854 PMCID: PMC3734046 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7525-11-130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Controlled Ovarian Stimulation (COS) is the first step for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, a treatment often described and experienced as stressful to patients and their partners. COS also requires concerted efforts by the patients in administering medication and general compliance to treatment protocols. Little is known about the impacts on patients that may be specific to this important first step in treatment. The absence of a conceptually sound and well-validated measure assessing patient experience and functioning during ovarian stimulation has been an obstacle to understanding the impacts of ovarian stimulation on women pursuing IVF. To address this gap, the Controlled Ovarian Stimulation Impact Measure (COSI) was developed based upon accepted methods for designing patient reported outcome (PRO) measures. The purpose of this study was to psychometrically validate the COSI. METHODS 267 patients from three countries (Ireland, United Kingdom, United States) were administered the COSI. Psychometric validation was conducted according to an a priori statistical analysis plan. RESULTS The final 28-item COSI was found to have robust scale structure with four domains: Interference in Daily Life (Work and Home), Injection Burden, Psychological Health and Compliance Worry. Internal consistency of all domains was adequate (between 0.80 to 0.87) as was test-retest reliability (between 0.72-0.87). All a-priori hypotheses for convergent and known-groups validity tests were met. CONCLUSIONS There is a measurable impact of COS on patient functioning and well-being. The COSI is a well-developed and validated PRO measure of this impact. Future work should include examination of responsiveness and confirmation of concepts in non-western countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meryl Brod
- The Brod Group, 219 Julia Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA
| | - Hein Fennema
- Merck Sharp & Dohme BV, Molenstraat 11, 5342 CC Oss, The Netherlands
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Effects of gender roles, child wish motives, subjective well-being, and marital adjustment on infertility-related stress: a preliminary study with a Hungarian sample of involuntary childless men and women. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2013; 288:925-32. [PMID: 23553201 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-013-2835-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study is to investigate the infertility-related stress in a Hungarian infertile population and examine the effects of gender roles, child wish motives, subjective well-being, and marital relationship on the experience of infertility according to our self-constructed conceptual framework. METHODS Validated self-report questionnaires measuring the factors of the conceptual framework were taken in the study carried out in a sample of 53 people attending the fertility unit of a Hungarian clinic. RESULTS Infertility-related global stress, infertility-related social concerns, and general health problems have more intensive effect on women than on men (all p < 0.05). Women from the infertile group scored higher their femininity (p < 0.001) and lower their general health (p < 0.05) than the reference population. Infertile men believe deeper in meaning of life than women (p < 0.05) or reference population (p < 0.01). Femininity (β = 0.460, p < 0.05), traditional gender role concepts (β = -0.248, p < 0.05), general health (β = -0.474, p < 0.05), and marital relationship (β = -0.251, p < 0.05) play the strongest role to predict stress caused by infertility. CONCLUSIONS The current study emphasizes the importance of interrelations of gender role attitudes, gender role identification, general health, and satisfaction in couple relationship with infertility-related stress. In further investigations, both social and personal aspects and their effect on experiencing infertility need to be measured in infertile people, particularly in different cultural settings.
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Darwiche J, Favez N, Maillard F, Germond M, Guex P, Despland JN, de Roten Y. Couples’ Resolution of an Infertility Diagnosis Before Undergoing in Vitro Fertilization. SWISS JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.1024/1421-0185/a000102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Although the use of assisted reproductive technology has today become more familiar, the suffering associated with the experience of infertility remains. This study assesses the emotional resolution of couples faced with an infertility diagnosis by examining their narratives. Fifty-seven couples were recruited from fertility clinics to participate in a semistructured interview prior to in vitro fertilization. Two aspects of the couples’ reactions to the infertility diagnosis were assessed: (1) each individual’s capacity to acknowledge the emotional reality of the diagnosis (diagnosis resolution) and (2) the couple’s ability to construct a shared meaning of the infertility diagnosis experience (narrative co-construction). Associations between these aspects and self-reported marital satisfaction, infertility-related stress, and diagnosis-related variables were analyzed. 73.7% of women and 61.4% of men had acknowledged the emotional reality of the diagnosis, and their scores for narrative co-construction were comparable to reference samples. Marital satisfaction, but not infertility-related stress, was associated with diagnosis resolution and narrative co-construction. The results indicate the importance of detecting couples with fewer individual and marital resources needed to face the reality of the diagnosis. A couple’s capacity to perceive the infertility diagnosis as a shared problem is also essential for dealing with this common life event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joëlle Darwiche
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Favez
- Faculty of Psychology and Sciences of Education, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Marc Germond
- Center for Medically Assisted Procreation and the F. A. B. E. R. Foundation, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrice Guex
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Yves de Roten
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
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Zaig I, Azem F, Schreiber S, Gottlieb-Litvin Y, Meiboom H, Bloch M. Women's psychological profile and psychiatric diagnoses and the outcome of in vitro fertilization: is there an association? Arch Womens Ment Health 2012; 15:353-9. [PMID: 22767032 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-012-0293-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 06/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The influence of psychological processes and psychiatric syndromes on the outcome of fertility treatments is not well understood. In this prospective study, we investigated the effect of baseline psychiatric diagnosis and situational psychiatric symptoms on several biological outcome factors of in vitro fertilization treatments (IVF). Women undergoing their first IVF treatment (n = 108) were interviewed before treatment for the presence of a lifetime DSM-IV-TR disorder. Questionnaires measuring state depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale), anxiety (State Trait Anxiety Inventory), and psychiatric symptomatology (Brief Symptom Inventory) were administered at ovulation induction. Outcome variables were number of retrieved and fertilized oocytes, chemical pregnancy, and a take home baby. Situational anxiety, depression, or other psychiatric symptoms had no effect on any of the outcome measures. Women diagnosed with mood or anxiety disorder prior to the onset of the IVF treatment showed a higher, though not statistically significant, pregnancy success rate compared to women without a diagnosis (57 % compared to 38 %). We speculate that in women with such psychopathology, chronic stress results in biological effects that impede successful implantation, thus impairing fertility. Fertility treatment using the IVF paradigm may bypass this negative effect, resulting in high success rates. This hypothesis should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inbar Zaig
- Department of Psychiatry, Tel Aviv Souraski Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Karatas JC, Barlow-Stewart K, Meiser B, McMahon C, Strong KA, Hill W, Roberts C, Kelly P. Psychological adjustment, knowledge and unmet information needs in women undergoing PGD. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:1481-9. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Greil AL, Slauson-Blevins K, McQuillan J. The experience of infertility: a review of recent literature. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2010; 32:140-62. [PMID: 20003036 PMCID: PMC3383794 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9566.2009.01213.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 388] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
About 10 years ago Greil published a review and critique of the literature on the socio-psychological impact of infertility. He found at the time that most scholars treated infertility as a medical condition with psychological consequences rather than as a socially constructed reality. This article examines research published since the last review. More studies now place infertility within larger social contexts and social scientific frameworks although clinical emphases persist. Methodological problems remain but important improvements are also evident. We identify two vigorous research traditions in the social scientific study of infertility. One tradition uses primarily quantitative techniques to study clinic patients in order to improve service delivery and to assess the need for psychological counselling. The other tradition uses primarily qualitative research to capture the experiences of infertile people in a sociocultural context. We conclude that more attention is now being paid to the ways in which the experience of infertility is shaped by social context. We call for continued progress in the development of a distinctly sociological approach to infertility and for the continued integration of the two research traditions identified here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur L Greil
- Division of Social Sciences, Alfred University, Alfred, New York 14802, USA.
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Balk J, Catov J, Horn B, Gecsi K, Wakim A. The relationship between perceived stress, acupuncture, and pregnancy rates among IVF patients: a pilot study. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2009; 16:154-157. [PMID: 20621276 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2009.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2009] [Accepted: 11/25/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The aim of this paper was to determine the effect of acupuncture on perceived stress levels in women on the day of embryo transfer (ET), and to determine if perceived stress levels at embryo transfer correlated with pregnancy rates. The study was an observational, prospective, cohort study based at the University IVF center. PATIENT(S) 57 infertile patients undergoing IVF or IVF/ICSI. INTERVENTIONS(S) Patients were undergoing Embryo Transfer with or without acupuncture as part of their standard clinical care. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Perceive Stress Scale scores, pregnancy rates. RESULT(S) women who received this acupuncture regimen achieved pregnancy 64.7%, whereas those without acupuncture achieved pregnancy 42.5%. When stratified by donor recipient status, only non-donor recipients potentially had an improvement with acupuncture (35.5% without acupuncture vs. 55.6% with acupuncture). Those who received this acupuncture regimen had lower stress scores both pre-ET and post-ET compared to those who did not. Those with decreased their perceived stress scores compared to baseline had higher pregnancy rates than those who did not demonstrate this decrease, regardless of acupuncture status. CONCLUSIONS(S) The acupuncture regimen was associated with less stress both before and after embryo transfer, and it possibly improved pregnancy rates. Lower perceived stress at the time of embryo transfer may play a role in an improved pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Balk
- University of Pittsburgh, Magee-Womens Hospital, 300 Halket Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Janet Catov
- University of Pittsburgh, Magee-Womens Hospital, 300 Halket Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Brandon Horn
- Eastern Center for Complementary Medicine, PC, Los Angeles, CA 90042, USA
| | | | - Anthony Wakim
- University of Pittsburgh, Magee-Womens Hospital, 300 Halket Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Reder F, Fernandez A, Ohl J. [Does sexuality still have a place for couples treated with assisted reproductive techniques?]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 38:377-88. [PMID: 19577383 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgyn.2009.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2008] [Revised: 04/29/2009] [Accepted: 05/19/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
METHOD This research enabled us to study the links between the diagnosis of infertility, medical care and the sexuality of the couples treated with Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART). QUESTIONNAIRE/PATIENTS The impact of infertility has been observed in various fields related to sexual intercourse: sexual desire and satisfaction, frequency of intercourse, sexual disorders as well as marital relationship and more generally the patient's experience of this medical follow-up. These effects were studied in the light of various factors, such as sex and age, number of children and years of ART as well as the type of protocol and the origin of infertility. RESULTS Our study reveals that the marital relationship is preserved as well as the pleasure felt during intercourse. However, the couples express a reduction of their sexual desire, linked to a loss of spontaneity that can be related to the strategies they set up to maximize their chances of pregnancy and to medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Reder
- Centre médicochirurgical et obstétrical, 19, rue Louis-Pasteur, 67300 Schiltigheim, France.
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Lee GL, Hui Choi WH, Chan CHY, Chan CLW, Ng EHY. Life after unsuccessful IVF treatment in an assisted reproduction unit: a qualitative analysis of gains through loss among Chinese persons in Hong Kong. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:1920-9. [PMID: 19372145 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies examining experiences of infertility focused mainly on the aspect of loss but neglected the possible gains realized through surviving the experience of infertility. The success rate of IVF remains relatively low, and we used the strengths perspective to examine adjustment after unsuccessful treatment. This study aims to provide an in-depth description of the gains perceived by Chinese men and women and how they re-constructed their lives after unsuccessful IVF treatment. METHODS Four couples and another six women who experienced unsuccessful IVF treatment were recruited from an assisted reproduction clinic. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, using a grounded theory constructivist approach. RESULTS Of the 10 women and 4 men interviewed, 9 remained childless, 3 had adopted a child and 2 had conceived naturally. They reported gains on a personal level, interpersonal level and transpersonal level through surviving the experience of infertility. All, regardless of the eventual outcome, reported at least one form of personal gain: in personality or knowledge gain. Interpersonal gains were perceived in relationships with their spouses, children, parents, friends, colleagues and fellow IVF service users. More than half of them reported spiritual growth and a change in identity through integrating their experiences and offering help to others. CONCLUSION Despite the small sample size, this study makes a significant contribution by suggesting that while negative feelings provoked by the failure to conceive should be acknowledged, people in this situation should also be enabled to consolidate their negative experiences of IVF constructively, helping them to move on with their lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geok Ling Lee
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
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23
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Lowyck B, Luyten P, Corveleyn J, D'Hooghe T, Buyse E, Demyttenaere K. Well-being and relationship satisfaction of couples dealing with an in vitro fertilization/ intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure: a multilevel approach on the role of self-criticism, dependency, and romantic attachment. Fertil Steril 2009; 91:387-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.11.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2007] [Revised: 11/14/2007] [Accepted: 11/16/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Psychological characteristics and marital quality of infertile women registered for in vitro fertilization-intracytoplasmic sperm injection in China. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:792-8. [PMID: 17222834 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.07.1534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2006] [Revised: 07/31/2006] [Accepted: 07/31/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the psychological health status and marital quality of Chinese women who were referred for IVF-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), to compare the results with a control group, and to test the impact of clinical and sociodemographic determinants on psychological health status and marital quality in this cohort. DESIGN A descriptive study of psychological health status and marital relationships, comparing infertile women who are registered for IVF or IVF-ICSI with fertile controls. SETTING An assisted reproductive center of a science and technology institute of family planning. PATIENT(S) Two groups of infertile women (100 registered for IVF, and 100 registered for ICSI), and a control group of 100 women attending a gynecology clinic, who have no known history of infertility. INTERVENTION Psychometric tests were administered at the first visit of the treatment cycle. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Psychological status measured by the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90), and marital quality measured by the ENRICH (Evaluating & Nurturing Relationship Issues, Communication & Happiness) marital inventory. RESULT(S) Infertile Chinese women planning to undergo IVF-ICSI scored significantly higher on all subscales of the SCL-90 than did controls. In addition, women in the IVF subgroup had significantly higher scores on depression scales than those in the ICSI subgroup. The study group displayed unstable relationships compared to the control group. Age, yearly income, duration of infertility, and history of unsuccessful IVF treatment had a negative correlation with psychological health status and marital quality. CONCLUSION(S) The stresses associated with infertility and IVF treatment had a negative impact on Chinese women's psychological health status and marital quality. These findings emphasize the need to include psychological and sociocultural considerations with any medical interventions for infertility.
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Verhaak CM, Smeenk JMJ, Evers AWM, Kremer JAM, Kraaimaat FW, Braat DDM. Women's emotional adjustment to IVF: a systematic review of 25 years of research. Hum Reprod Update 2006; 13:27-36. [PMID: 16940360 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dml040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 408] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This review provides an overview of how women adjust emotionally to the various phases of IVF treatment in terms of anxiety, depression or general distress before, during and after different treatment cycles. A systematic scrutiny of the literature yielded 706 articles that paid attention to emotional aspects of IVF treatment of which 27 investigated the women's emotional adjustment with standardized measures in relation to norm or control groups. Most studies involved concurrent comparisons between women in different treatment phases and different types of control groups. The findings indicated that women starting IVF were only slightly different emotionally from the norm groups. Unsuccessful treatment raised the women's levels of negative emotions, which continued after consecutive unsuccessful cycles. In general, most women proved to adjust well to unsuccessful IVF, although a considerable group showed subclinical emotional problems. When IVF resulted in pregnancy, the negative emotions disappeared, indicating that treatment-induced stress is considerably related to threats of failure. The concurrent research reviewed, should now be underpinned by longitudinal studies to provide more information about women's long-term emotional adjustment to unsuccessful IVF and about indicators of risk factors for problematic emotional adjustment after unsuccessful treatment, to foster focused psychological support for women at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Verhaak
- Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Nijmegen, Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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26
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Holter H, Anderheim L, Bergh C, Möller A. First IVF treatment--short-term impact on psychological well-being and the marital relationship. Hum Reprod 2006; 21:3295-302. [PMID: 16931802 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to assess infertile couples' short-term emotional responses to their first IVF treatment (the women's and men's emotional reactions and their experiences of the marital relationship at different stages of the first treatment) and to relate these responses to the outcome of the IVF treatment. METHODS The study was part of a prospective, longitudinal study where 117 couples participated. The women and men answered questionnaires separately concerning psychological and social factors at three occasions: before, during and 1 month after treatment. RESULTS Women's and men's emotional reactions related to first IVF treatment were dependent on whether they achieved a pregnancy or not. Those who failed to become pregnant rated their emotional well-being worse, whereas those who became pregnant rated their emotional well-being better than before treatment started. The women reported stronger emotional reactions about their infertility than their husbands. However, the men reacted in the same emotional pattern as their wives when pregnancy was not achieved. A majority reported that the marital relationship improved during treatment. CONCLUSION Couples undergoing their first IVF treatment are as a group well adjusted and manage to handle the short-term emotional strain under treatment. The determining factor for short-term emotional response of treatment was whether pregnancy was achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Holter
- Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institution of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Sahlgrenska, Göteborg University, Sweden.
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Cousineau TM, Green TC, Corsini EA, Barnard T, Seibring AR, Domar AD. Development and validation of the Infertility Self-Efficacy scale. Fertil Steril 2006; 85:1684-96. [PMID: 16677636 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.10.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2005] [Revised: 10/30/2005] [Accepted: 10/30/2005] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop and validate a scale of perceived self-efficacy for people coping with infertility treatment. DESIGN Self-efficacy scale development involved: [1] item generation with medical experts in reproductive health; [2] a principal components analysis with varimax rotation to identify underlying item components; [3] test-retest reliability and construct (convergent and discriminant) validity with infertility patients, who were administered the Infertility Self-Efficacy (ISE) scale with other measures; and [4] expert acceptability, as determined by reproductive health professionals. SETTING Recruitment at a fertility center, a national infertility organization, and medical trials web pages. PATIENT(S) A total of 213 participants (159 women; 54 men) with a diagnosis of infertility in the past 2 years were recruited for the various study phases. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Participants' infertility self-efficacy was assessed with an online assessment battery using the ISE scale; comparison mental health measures assessed current levels of fertility problem distress, perceived stress, and coping style. Reliability, validity, and component structure of the ISE was assessed. RESULT(S) Measurement development yielded a brief 16-item ISE scale that taps an infertility patient's perception about his or her ability to engage in a set of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral skills related to the medical treatment of infertility. The single component of "cognitive/affect regulation" suggests this core set of skills is relevant to successfully managing the experience of infertility. The ISE correlations with comparison mental health measures were as expected, suggesting good convergent and discriminant validity. CONCLUSION(S) The ISE scale appears to be a reliable and valid measure of an individual's self confidence in areas related to health promotion during infertility treatment. Assessing an infertility patients' self-efficacy with the ISE may be useful in clinical research and as a counseling tool to help guide patients in actively managing their fertility treatment.
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Groh CJ, Wagner C. The art of communicating ART results: an analysis of infertile couples' experience. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2005. [DOI: 10.1080/02646830500273533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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de Klerk C, Hunfeld JAM, Duivenvoorden HJ, den Outer MA, Fauser BCJM, Passchier J, Macklon NS. Effectiveness of a psychosocial counselling intervention for first-time IVF couples: a randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:1333-8. [PMID: 15650042 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to evaluate a psychosocial counselling intervention for first-time IVF couples. In this article the results on women's distress are presented. METHODS Two hundred sixty-five couples admitted to an IVF treatment programme at the Erasmus MC were asked to participate in this study. Eighty-four couples agreed and were randomized according to a computer-generated random-numbers table into either a routine-care control group or an intervention group. The intervention consisted of three sessions with a social worker trained in Experiential Psychosocial Therapy: one before, one during and one after the first IVF cycle. Distress was measured daily during treatment by the Daily Record Keeping Chart. Depression and anxiety were measured before and after treatment by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. RESULTS No significant group differences were found. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study do not support the implementation of our counselling intervention for all first-time IVF couples. The low response rate suggests that there is little perceived need for psychosocial counselling among couples during a first IVF treatment cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- C de Klerk
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus MC, GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Coëffin-Driol C, Giami A. L'impact de l'infertilité et de ses traitements sur la vie sexuelle et la relation de couple : revue de la littérature. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 32:624-37. [PMID: 15450262 DOI: 10.1016/j.gyobfe.2004.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2004] [Accepted: 06/09/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This paper reviews the literature on the psychosocial impact of infertility and its treatments by the ART on the marital sexuality, by paying special attention to the relationship between gender and the infertility experience. It is convenient to divide this literature into articles that explore the sexual life of the infertile couples on the one hand, and those focusing on the couple relationship - marital satisfaction and marital adjustment-, on the other hand. The literature on the infertile couples' sexuality and sexual satisfaction, mostly descriptive, presents infertility as a deleterious experience for both women and men even if the repercussion differ according to gender, with correlative dynamic effects within the couple. The contributions to the investigation of the couple relationship, mostly quantitative Anglo-Saxon studies, have produced equivocal or contradictory results concerning the satisfaction with the relationship, the closeness between the two partners so that it is difficult to assume a trend in this field. This situation is largely due to the problems of sampling. In this view, future research should perform its methodological apparatus to take into account the processual nature of the infertility experience, at both levels of couple history and its involvement in the ART process.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Coëffin-Driol
- Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), unité 569, 82, rue du Général-Leclerc, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
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Khayata GM, Rizk DEE, Hasan MY, Ghazal-Aswad S, Asaad MAN. Factors influencing the quality of life of infertile women in United Arab Emirates. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2003; 80:183-8. [PMID: 12566196 DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7292(02)00387-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To measure the quality of life in a representative sample of infertile women and evaluate their sociocultural attitude to this condition. METHODS Two hundred sixty-nine infertile women attending the Assisted Reproduction clinic, Tawam Hospital were consecutively selected. They were interviewed about the effect of infertility on their quality of life using a structured, measurement-specific and pre-tested questionnaire. RESULTS Parameters mostly affected were mood-related mainly in women above 30 years, with primary and female factor infertility and those in polygamous marriages. Quality of life did not affect sexual performance and was not affected by duration of infertility or cost of treatment. CONCLUSION The results highlight the importance of bearing children and the stresses exerted on infertile women in Eastern societies. Thorough counseling and continuing support of infertile women is therefore indicated to improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Khayata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tawam Hospital, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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