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Fasanghari M, Keramat A, Tansaz M, Moini A, Chaman R. Effect of alternative and complementary medicine on male infertility: An umbrella review. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e2118. [PMID: 38915352 PMCID: PMC11194475 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.2118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims There is increasing interest worldwide in using alternative and complementary approaches for treating male infertility. This interest has spawned a multitude of published systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The aim of this Umbrella review was to consolidate the available evidence regarding the effect of complementary and alternative medicine on male infertility to inform clinical decision-making processes. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted to identify systematic reviews and meta-analyses pertaining to the effects of complementary and alternative medicine on male infertility. This search encompassed various databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, Proquest, Google Scholar, SID, EMBASE, Magiran, Cochrane Library, Iranmedex, ScienceDirect, SAGE. Subsequently, two researchers independently extracted the data from the selected meta-analyses and systematic reviews, and evaluated their methodological quality using the assessment of multiple systematic reviews 2 (AMSTAR2). Results This analysis encompassed 11 studies, with four originating from Iran, two from Korea and five from China. The results regarding the effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine are controversial, indicating a need for further research. The methodological quality of the systematic reviews and meta-analyses appraised by AMSTAR 2 was rated as low or critically low. This assessment is attributed to inadequate examination of publication biases in the reviews and a lack of discussion regarding the effect of risk of bias. Conclusion The existing evidence regarding the effectiveness of alternative and complementary medicine in addressing male infertility is limited. Furthermore, the overall methodological quality of the published systematic reviews and meta-analyses may have been underestimated as the use of AMSTAR2 appears to be a more precise appraisal instrument compared to its predecessor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Fasanghari
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and MidwiferyShahroud University of Medical SciencesShahroudIran
| | - Afsaneh Keramat
- Center for Health Related Social and Behavioral Sciences ResearchShahroud University of Medical SciencesShahroudIran
| | - Mojgan Tansaz
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional MedicineShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Ashraf Moini
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Arash Women's HospitalTehran University of Medical SciencesTeranIran
- Breast Disease Research Center (BDRC)Tehran University of Medical SciencesTeranIran
- Department of Endocrinology & Female Infertility at ReproductionBiomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproduction ACERTehranIran
| | - Reza Chaman
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of MedicineShahroud University of Medical SciencesShahroudIran
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Torkel S, Wang R, Norman RJ, Zhao L, Liu K, Boden D, Xu W, Moran L, Cowan S. Barriers and enablers to a healthy lifestyle in people with infertility: a mixed-methods systematic review. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae011. [PMID: 38743500 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While there is a recognized role of optimizing lifestyle (diet and physical activity) behaviours in the management of infertility, the best practice remains unknown and factors influencing the lifestyle of people with infertility are not well understood. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This systematic review evaluated barriers and enablers to a healthy lifestyle in people with infertility, from the perspectives of people with infertility and health professionals, in order to inform optimal behavioural change strategies. SEARCH METHODS Ovid MEDLINE(R), PsycINFO, EMBASE, EBM Reviews, and CINAHL were searched from inception to 28 August 2023. Eligible studies were qualitative and quantitative primary studies that explored barriers and/or enablers to lifestyle for infertility management. Quality assessment was performed using the Centre for Evidence-Based Management Critical Appraisal of a Survey Tool and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative Checklist. Data were analysed by thematic analysis with themes mapped to the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour (COM-B) model and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). OUTCOMES After screening 12 326 abstracts and 99 full-texts, 27 studies were included (12 quantitative, 6 qualitative and 9 mixed-methods) with 22 studies of women with infertility (n = 2524), 11 studies of men with infertility (n = 1407), and 6 studies of health professionals (n = 372). We identified barriers and enablers relating to capability (e.g. strategies for behaviour change), opportunity (e.g. limited time, resources, and money), and motivation (e.g. interplay between lifestyle and emotional state). Based on the identified themes, suggested intervention components to integrate into lifestyle management of infertility include facilitating development of self-management skills to support lifestyle change (e.g. self-monitoring, action planning, and goal setting) and incorporating mental health strategies (e.g. providing information about the benefits of healthy lifestyle behaviours for mental health and encouraging patients to reframe healthy lifestyle behaviours as self-care strategies). WIDER IMPLICATIONS The findings have identified important factors that influence lifestyle management in people with infertility and have suggested relevant intervention components to consider when designing interventions. Given the paucity of qualitative studies identified, more research is needed to further understand the complex and interacting factors that shape lifestyle during the fertility journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Torkel
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert J Norman
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Lijun Zhao
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kai Liu
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Dana Boden
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Wentong Xu
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Lisa Moran
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Stephanie Cowan
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Ge H, Chang H, Wang Y, Cong J, Liu Y, Zhang B, Wu X. Establishment and validation of a nomogram model for predicting ovulation in the PCOS women. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37733. [PMID: 38579058 PMCID: PMC10994453 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanisms underlying ovulatory dysfunction in PCOS remain debatable. This study aimed to identify the factors affecting ovulation among PCOS patients based on a large sample-sized randomized control trial. METHODS Data were obtained from a multi-centered randomized clinical trial, the PCOSAct, which was conducted between 2011 and 2015. Univariate and multivariate analysis using binary logistic regression were used to construct a prediction model and nomogram. The accuracy of the model was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration curves. RESULTS The predictive variables included in the training dataset model were luteinizing hormone (LH), free testosterone, body mass index (BMI), period times per year, and clomiphene treatment. The ROC curve for the model in the training dataset was 0.81 (95% CI [0.77, 0.85]), while in the validation dataset, it was 0.7801 (95% CI [0.72, 0.84]). The model showed good discrimination in both the training and validation datasets. Decision curve analysis demonstrated that the nomogram designed for ovulation had clinical utility and superior discriminative ability for predicting ovulation. CONCLUSIONS The nomogram composed of LH, free testosterone, BMI, period times per year and the application of clomiphene may predict the ovulation among PCOS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Ge
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hui Chang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yu Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jing Cong
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin Heilongjiang, China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang provincial hospital, Harbin Heilongjiang, China
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4
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Sehgal S, Dyer A, Warren C, Galic I, Jain T. Integrative medicine utilization among infertility patients. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:71. [PMID: 37533097 PMCID: PMC10394890 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01121-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research suggests that some women are using integrative and complementary holistic approaches to optimize their own health and treat infertility. We aimed to determine patterns of integrative medicine use among those seeking fertility optimization by 1) Characterizing patterns of integrative medicine use to increase fertility; 2) Identifying demographic predictors associated with such integrative medicine use; and 3) Exploring cultural and religious influences on use of integrative medicine. METHODS Cross-sectional self-reported survey data were collected from 1460 patients presenting to an academic fertility center in Chicago, Illinois. Variables were described with univariate frequencies and proportions, unadjusted bivariate comparisons were made between patient-level factors and reported integrative modality use, and multivariable logistic regression evaluated the strength of covariate-adjusted predictors of reported integrative medicine utilization. RESULTS 80.4% of respondents reported using at least one integrative medicine modality to treat infertility (Acupuncture: 38.5%, Yoga: 27.6%, Massage: 25.8%, Meditation: 16.7%, and Herbal supplements: 18.5%). Diet therapy was the most frequently utilized modality (74.0%) followed by body therapy (45.2%), traditional alternative medicine (42.0%), mind therapy (32.1%), and senses therapy (23.0%). Any integrative medicine modality use was 4.03 times more likely among Hindu respondents compared to participants that identified as not religious (95% CI 1.2-13.7, p < 0.026). Significant differences in specific modality use were observed by race, religious affiliation, age, income, and insurance coverage. CONCLUSION Most infertility patients in our study reported using at least one integrative medicine modality to help them conceive. Utilization was associated with age of participant, religious affiliation, annual income, and insurance coverage. Further research is needed to assess the impact of integrative medicine utilization on patient quality of life and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Sehgal
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ashley Dyer
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Christopher Warren
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Isabel Galic
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tarun Jain
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
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5
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Feng J, He H, Wang Y, Zhang X, Zhang X, Zhang T, Zhu M, Wu X, Zhang Y. The efficacy and mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of male infertility: A literature review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1009537. [PMID: 36329891 PMCID: PMC9624472 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1009537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility, a social, cultural, and medical issue, has aroused public attention because of its potential to predict future health. In recent years, the incidence of male infertility has increased significantly, and various risk factors, such as congenital factors, acquired factors, and idiopathic factors, have led to this situation. Male infertility causes substantial psychological and social distress in patients. With the implementation of the two-child policy, male infertility has brought enormous psychological and social pressure and huge economic burden to patients and the healthcare system. This has attracted the attention of not only men of childbearing age but also many male experts. The conventional therapeutic approaches for treating male infertility, including drugs, varicocele surgery, intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilization, and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, can restore fertility to a certain extent, but their efficacy is far from satisfactory, not to mention some adverse events. Therefore, acupuncture has been chosen by many men to treat their infertility and produced significant effects. In the present paper, the efficacy and mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of male infertility were analyzed from different perspectives such as regulating hormone secretion, reducing inflammation, and improving semen parameters. The existing literature shows that acupuncture can effectively treat male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxing Feng
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Hui He
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yu Wang
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xiuying Zhang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Mengyi Zhu
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Yuehui Zhang
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
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6
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Mutombo CS, Bakari SA, Ntabaza VN, Nachtergael A, Lumbu JBS, Duez P, Kahumba JB. Perceptions and use of traditional African medicine in Lubumbashi, Haut-Katanga province (DR Congo): A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276325. [PMID: 36256659 PMCID: PMC9578634 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the desire of the Ministry of Health to integrate Traditional African Medicine into the Official Health System remains limited by the lack of reliable data on several aspects of this medicine. This study aims to determine the perceptions of the Lubumbashi population towards Traditional African Medicine and the contexts of recourse to these therapeutic modalities. We conducted semi-structured interviews of population samples in each of the 7 Lubumbashi municipalities, which were semi-randomly selected in proportions to each population size, from January to June 2017 and from February to July 2018. A total of 4278 people (average age, 32.1 ± 10.4 years; 36.5% of women) have been surveyed. Among them, 75.8% define "Traditional African Medicine" as "herbal-based treatments"; 79.4% have resorted to traditional medicine, for several pathologies and social problems. This medicine was preferred for efficiency, speed of healing and low cost, as well as the presence of the diseases against which it would be the only one used. Most, (52.1%) have started with Conventional Medicine, then resorted to Traditional African Medicine, 34.7% started directly with Traditional African Medicine, while 13.2% combined these two medicines. From those who have resorted to Traditional African Medicine (n = 3396), 55% declare no concern towards traditional medicine, while 42.5% fear looseness, overdose, intoxication, and lack of hygiene; from those who have not resorted to Traditional African Medicine (n = 882), 78% are fearful of fear looseness, witchcraft, and fetishism. Traditional African Medicine remains an important health care resource for the Lubumbashi people. It is essential that decision-makers consider the importance of this health sector for the population, but also the reported fears and hindrances, and work towards the regulation, sanitization, and control of this medicine to ensure its safe use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedrick S Mutombo
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, DR Congo
- Unit of Therapeutic Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Salvius A Bakari
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, DR Congo
| | - Vianney N Ntabaza
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, DR Congo
| | - Amandine Nachtergael
- Unit of Therapeutic Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Jean-Baptiste S Lumbu
- Service de Chimie Organique, Département de Chimie, Faculté des Sciences, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, DR Congo
| | - Pierre Duez
- Unit of Therapeutic Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Joh B Kahumba
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, DR Congo
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7
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Sharifi F, Roudsari RL. Complementary and alternative medicine use in infertility: A review of infertile women's needs. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2022; 11:195. [PMID: 36003226 PMCID: PMC9393951 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_704_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is common in infertile women in different countries. The purpose of the current study was to review the infertile women's needs in relation to CAM use. This narrative review was conducted through searching English databases including Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane library as well as Persian databases consisted of SID, and Magiran. The used keywords included "CAM/therapy, needs, and Infertility." All studies published in English peer-reviewed journals from conception to October 2020, which examined the infertile women's needs in the field of CAM use were included in the review. In the process of data extraction, two researchers screened the title, abstract, and full text of the articles. Out of the 2166 articles reviewed, 29 articles including six qualitative and mixed methods studies, four review, and 19 quantitative studies met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that infertile women have different needs in six domains consisted of educational and informational needs, the need for psychological counseling, supportive needs, the need for CAM use counseling, the need to treatment consistent with women's culture and demands, and the need to the integration of CAM with conventional medicine. Awareness of infertile women's needs toward CAM use can help health policymakers and planners in designing and implementing counseling services in accordance with the demands and culture of infertile couples. It also helps to develop a coherent program to integrate the use of CAM in the classical infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farangis Sharifi
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Robab Latifnejad Roudsari
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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8
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Litalien M, Atari DO, Obasi I. The Influence of Religiosity and Spirituality on Health in Canada: A Systematic Literature Review. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2022; 61:373-414. [PMID: 33409859 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-020-01148-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The association between religion and health has been the subject of growing interest in academia. However, limited reviews of such studies in Canada exist. The paper systematically reviews and synthesizes existing literature on the relationship between spirituality and health in Canada. Available general databases such as: Medline; Web of Science, PubMed, Sociological abstract, Social Service Abstracts, Google scholar, Humanities International Index, JSTOR, CPI.Q Canadian Periodicals, and American Theological Library Association were searched for the period between 2000 and April 2019 inclusive. Collected data were then systematically analysed for common themes about spirituality and health in Canada. In total, 151 articles were found, but only 128 had relevance with the study objectives. Overall, the analysis showed that religion and spirituality do influence health behaviours, and well-being. However, more gender-based studies need to be conducted to tease out the differences in religion/spirituality and health across different genders, and ethnic groups in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Litalien
- Social Welfare and Social Development, Nipissing University, 100 College Drive, Box 5002, North Bay, ON, P1B 8L7, Canada.
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9
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Sharifi F, Heydari A, Roudsari RL. Infertile women's healing experiences of using complementary and alternative medicine: A phenomenological inquiry. Eur J Integr Med 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2021.101369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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10
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Regeai SO, Abusrer SA, Shibani NS. Low semen quality and adverse histological changes in testes of adult male mice treated with bee venom ( Apis mellifera). Open Vet J 2021; 11:70-79. [PMID: 33898286 PMCID: PMC8057216 DOI: 10.4314/ovj.v11i1.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Male infertility has been on the rise since the past seven decades. Recently, in Libya, bee venom therapy (BVT) has become a popular method among alternative healthcare practitioners for treating male infertility. However, a literature search did not find any published studies that investigated the use of BVT for infertility treatment. Aim To investigate the effect of bee venom on the male reproductive status through measurements of semen quality parameters and testicular histological changes in adult male mice. Methods A total of 48 male mice were randomly divided into three experimental groups (which were subdivided into two subgroups with eight mice each) as follows: control, bee venom sting (BVS), and bee venom injection (BVI). The normal control subgroup mice were not subjected to any treatment, while the vehicle control subgroup mice were injected (i.p.) with 200 μl of 0.9% saline solution. In the BVS-treated subgroups, each mouse was stung by one live bee for five times (BVS-5) or seven times (BVS-7) every third day for 2 or 3 weeks. While each mouse in the BVI-treated subgroups received 23 μg/kg in a dose volume of 200 μl BVIs (i.p.) for five times (BVI-5) or seven times (BVI-7) every third day for 15 or 21 days. Results The findings of this study showed that repeated bee venom treatment by sting or injection to adult male mice resulted in a significant decline in testosterone levels, sperm count, sperm motility, and a very significant increase in the percentage of abnormal sperm morphology; also, there were harmful testicular histological changes in the structural organization of seminiferous tubules and degenerative changes in the germinal epithelium compared to control group. Conclusion The results of this study provide evidence for the low semen quality and adverse testicular histological changes in male mice treated with bee venom. Hence, there is a desperate need for educating alternative healthcare practitioners and infertile couples about the harmful effects of BVT on reproductive status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sassia O Regeai
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science, Libyan Academy of Postgraduate Studies, Janzour, Libya.,Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Salma A Abusrer
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Naema S Shibani
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science, Libyan Academy of Postgraduate Studies, Janzour, Libya.,Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
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Kirubarajan A, Patel P, Leung S, Prethipan T, Sierra S. Barriers to fertility care for racial/ethnic minority groups: a qualitative systematic review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.xfnr.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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12
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Ghaedi Heidari F, Dehghan M, Mokhtarabadi S. Complementary and Alternative Medicine Usage and Its Determinant Factors Among Infertile Men in Iran. J Family Reprod Health 2021; 14:180-185. [PMID: 33603810 PMCID: PMC7868654 DOI: 10.18502/jfrh.v14i3.4671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to assess the use of some Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) techniques in infertile men. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 102 infertile men referred to the only center of infertility in Kerman, Iran using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a two-part researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics (chi-square test and logistic regression) with SPSS 16. Results: According to the present study, 72.5% of subjects used at least one of the CAM methods in the past year. Among them 28.4% of the subjects have used one CAM technique, 13.7% have used two techniques, 8.8% have used three techniques, 9.8% have used four techniques, and 11.8% have used more than four techniques since the last year. None of the socio-demographic characteristics had significant association with being the user of complementary and alternative medicines. Conclusion: The results showed that almost three quarters of the infertile men used CAM indicating a high prevalence of CAM usage among them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahlagha Dehghan
- Nursing Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Tangkiatkumjai M, Boardman H, Walker DM. Potential factors that influence usage of complementary and alternative medicine worldwide: a systematic review. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:363. [PMID: 33228697 PMCID: PMC7686746 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03157-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine similarities and differences in the reasons for using or not using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) amongst general and condition-specific populations, and amongst populations in each region of the globe. METHODS A literature search was performed on Pubmed, ScienceDirect and EMBASE. KEYWORDS 'herbal medicine' OR 'herbal and dietary supplement' OR 'complementary and alternative medicine' AND 'reason' OR 'attitude'. Quantitative or qualitative original articles in English, published between 2003 and 2018 were reviewed. Conference proceedings, pilot studies, protocols, letters, and reviews were excluded. Papers were appraised using valid tools and a 'risk of bias' assessment was also performed. Thematic analysis was conducted. Reasons were coded in each paper, then codes were grouped into categories. If several categories reported similar reasons, these were combined into a theme. Themes were then analysed using χ2 tests to identify the main factors related to reasons for CAM usage. RESULTS 231 publications were included. Reasons for CAM use amongst general and condition-specific populations were similar. The top three reasons for CAM use were: (1) having an expectation of benefits of CAM (84% of publications), (2) dissatisfaction with conventional medicine (37%) and (3) the perceived safety of CAM (37%). Internal health locus of control as an influencing factor was more likely to be reported in Western populations, whereas the social networks was a common factor amongst Asian populations (p < 0.05). Affordability, easy access to CAM and tradition were significant factors amongst African populations (p < 0.05). Negative attitudes towards CAM and satisfaction with conventional medicine (CM) were the main reasons for non-use (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Dissatisfaction with CM and positive attitudes toward CAM, motivate people to use CAM. In contrast, satisfaction with CM and negative attitudes towards CAM are the main reasons for non-use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayuree Tangkiatkumjai
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Srinakharinwirot University, Nakhonnayok, 26120 Thailand
| | - Helen Boardman
- Division of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Dawn-Marie Walker
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Cox CM, Johnson CL. Engagement in Nonbiomedical Practices for Fertility Enhancement: A Scoping Review. J Altern Complement Med 2020; 26:1000-1014. [PMID: 32609536 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2020.0092] [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: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This scoping review aims to (1) describe the scope and coverage of the body of literature on nonbiomedical practices used for enhancing fertility, (2) summarize and map the existing evidence on the extent and types of nonbiomedical practices used, and (3) examine how the research on this topic has been conducted with particular attention paid to how participants are asked about their use of nonbiomedical practices for fertility enhancement. Design: We conducted a scoping review by which four databases were searched (PubMed, Psychinfo, Socindex, and CINHAL). Articles were screened for inclusion by two researchers through a title and abstract screening followed by a full-text screening. Data were extracted from included articles and results summarized and compared across studies and regions. Results: A total of 32 studies were identified from 16 countries in five regions of the world. The majority of studies were clinic-based, primarily recruiting participants from fertility clinics in urban and suburban areas. More than half of the studies included only women, a few studies included only men, and the remainder of studies included both men and women. Most quantitative studies reported the prevalence of nonbiomedical practice use, which ranged from 8% to 83%; however, there was variation across studies regarding the time frame for which these percentages were derived. Few studies reported on other measures of the extent of use such as duration or frequency. A variety of nonbiomedical practices were identified with biologically based treatments, particularly herbal medicine use, being the most common followed by religious and spiritual interventions. Regional differences were identified. Variation in the wording and format of the question(s) used in survey instruments asking participants about their use of nonbiomedical practices exists and may impact participants' reporting of use. Conclusions: Infertility affects millions of individuals worldwide often with severe social, emotional, and financial consequences. To enhance fertility and, in some cases, overcome infertility, many individuals and couples are engaging in a variety of nonbiomedical practices. This scoping review describes the scope and nature of the existing literature on the use of nonbiomedical practices for fertility enhancement and highlights important gaps and limitations in the conduct of this research. A more comprehensive and inclusive investigation of nonbiomedical practices for enhancing fertility is needed to improve our understanding of how individuals and couples are managing infertility, identify educational and counseling needs, and to improve research related to effectiveness and safety of nonbiomedical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Courtney L Johnson
- Department of Public Health, St. Catherine University, St. Paul, MN, USA
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Miner SA, Robins S, Zhu YJ, Keeren K, Gu V, Read SC, Zelkowitz P. Evidence for the use of complementary and alternative medicines during fertility treatment: a scoping review. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 18:158. [PMID: 29764413 PMCID: PMC5952848 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2224-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) are sometimes used by individuals who desire to improve the outcomes of their fertility treatment and/or mental health during fertility treatment. However, there is little comprehensive information available that analyzes various CAM methods across treatment outcomes and includes information that is published in languages other than English. METHOD This scoping review examines the evidence for 12 different CAM methods used to improve female and male fertility outcomes as well as their association with improving mental health outcomes during fertility treatment. Using predefined key words, online medical databases were searched for articles (n = 270). After exclusion criteria were applied, 148 articles were analyzed in terms of their level of evidence and the potential for methodological and author bias. RESULTS Surveying the literature on a range of techniques, this scoping review finds a lack of high quality evidence that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) improves fertility or mental health outcomes for men or women. Acupuncture has the highest level of evidence for its use in improving male and female fertility outcomes although this evidence is inconclusive. CONCLUSION Overall, the quality of the evidence across CAM methods was poor not only because of the use of research designs that do not yield conclusive results, but also because results were contradictory. There is a need for more research using strong methods such as randomized controlled trials to determine the effectiveness of CAM in relation to fertility treatment, and to help physicians and patients make evidence-based decisions about CAM use during fertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skye A. Miner
- Department of Sociology, McGill University, Room 712, Leacock Building, 855 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC H3A 2T7 Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Room 223, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4 Canada
| | - Stephanie Robins
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Room 223, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4 Canada
| | - Yu Jia Zhu
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Room 223, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4 Canada
- Department of Dentistry, McGill University, 2001 McGill College Ave, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1 Canada
| | - Kathelijne Keeren
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Room 223, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4 Canada
| | - Vivian Gu
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Room 223, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4 Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia Medical School, 2275 Laurel Street, 10th Floor, British Columbia, BC V5Z 1M9 Canada
| | - Suzanne C. Read
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Room 223, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4 Canada
| | - Phyllis Zelkowitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Room 223, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4 Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, 3755 Chemin de la Cote-Ste-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2 Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Ludmer Research and Training Building, 1033 Pine Ave. West., Montreal, QC H3A 1A1 Canada
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Prevalence and Correlates of Herbal Medicine Use among Women Seeking Care for Infertility in Freetown, Sierra Leone. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:9493807. [PMID: 29849738 PMCID: PMC5937420 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9493807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In resource-poor countries where access to infertility care is limited, women may turn to traditional medicine to achieve motherhood. It is unknown whether Sierra Leonean women with such condition use herbal medicine. This study investigates the prevalence and factors associated with herbal medicine use among women seeking care for infertility. This was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study conducted among women seeking care for infertility at various clinics within Freetown, Sierra Leone. Data analysis included Chi-square tests and logistic regression. Out of the 167 women that participated, 36.5% used herbal medicine for infertility treatment. Women with no formal (AOR 4.03, CL: 1.38-11.76, p = 0.011), primary education (AOR: 6.23, CL: 2.02-19.23, p = 0.001) and those that visited a traditional medicine practitioner (AOR: 20.05, CL: 2.10-192.28, p = 0.009) as well as women suffering from other reproductive health problems (AOR: 2.57, CL: 1.13-5.83, p = 0.024) were more likely to use herbal medicines. Friends and family (n = 57, 96.7%) were the main influencers of herbal medicine use. Only (n = 12) 19.7% of users disclosed their status to their healthcare provider. Over half (n = 32, 52.5%) could not remember the name of the herb they used. Luffa acutangula (n = 29, 100%) was the herbal medicinal plant users could recall. Herbal medicine use among women seeking care for infertility in Freetown is common. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential dyadic use of herbal and allopathic medicines by their patients and be knowledgeable about commonly used herbal remedies as well as being proactive in communicating the potential risks and benefits associated with their use.
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Wu XK, Stener-Victorin E, Kuang HY, Ma HL, Gao JS, Xie LZ, Hou LH, Hu ZX, Shao XG, Ge J, Zhang JF, Xue HY, Xu XF, Liang RN, Ma HX, Yang HW, Li WL, Huang DM, Sun Y, Hao CF, Du SM, Yang ZW, Wang X, Yan Y, Chen XH, Fu P, Ding CF, Gao YQ, Zhou ZM, Wang CC, Wu TX, Liu JP, Ng EHY, Legro RS, Zhang H. Effect of Acupuncture and Clomiphene in Chinese Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA 2017; 317:2502-2514. [PMID: 28655015 PMCID: PMC5815063 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2017.7217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Acupuncture is used to induce ovulation in some women with polycystic ovary syndrome, without supporting clinical evidence. OBJECTIVE To assess whether active acupuncture, either alone or combined with clomiphene, increases the likelihood of live births among women with polycystic ovary syndrome. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A double-blind (clomiphene vs placebo), single-blind (active vs control acupuncture) factorial trial was conducted at 21 sites (27 hospitals) in mainland China between July 6, 2012, and November 18, 2014, with 10 months of pregnancy follow-up until October 7, 2015. Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome were randomized in a 1:1:1:1 ratio to 4 groups. INTERVENTIONS Active or control acupuncture administered twice a week for 30 minutes per treatment and clomiphene or placebo administered for 5 days per cycle, for up to 4 cycles. The active acupuncture group received deep needle insertion with combined manual and low-frequency electrical stimulation; the control acupuncture group received superficial needle insertion, no manual stimulation, and mock electricity. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was live birth. Secondary outcomes included adverse events. RESULTS Among the 1000 randomized women (mean [SD] age, 27.9 [3.3] years; mean [SD] body mass index, 24.2 [4.3]), 250 were randomized to each group; a total of 926 women (92.6%) completed the trial. Live births occurred in 69 of 235 women (29.4%) in the active acupuncture plus clomiphene group, 66 of 236 (28.0%) in the control acupuncture plus clomiphene group, 31 of 223 (13.9%) in the active acupuncture plus placebo group, and 39 of 232 (16.8%) in the control acupuncture plus placebo group. There was no significant interaction between active acupuncture and clomiphene (P = .39), so main effects were evaluated. The live birth rate was significantly higher in the women treated with clomiphene than with placebo (135 of 471 [28.7%] vs 70 of 455 [15.4%], respectively; difference, 13.3%; 95% CI, 8.0% to 18.5%) and not significantly different between women treated with active vs control acupuncture (100 of 458 [21.8%] vs 105 of 468 [22.4%], respectively; difference, -0.6%; 95% CI, -5.9% to 4.7%). Diarrhea and bruising were more common in patients receiving active acupuncture than control acupuncture (diarrhea: 25 of 500 [5.0%] vs 8 of 500 [1.6%], respectively; difference, 3.4%; 95% CI, 1.2% to 5.6%; bruising: 37 of 500 [7.4%] vs 9 of 500 [1.8%], respectively; difference, 5.6%; 95% CI, 3.0% to 8.2%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Among Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome, the use of acupuncture with or without clomiphene, compared with control acupuncture and placebo, did not increase live births. This finding does not support acupuncture as an infertility treatment in such women. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01573858.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ke Wu
- Committee of Reproductive Medicine, World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies, Beijing, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Elisabet Stener-Victorin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hong-Ying Kuang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Hong-Li Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jing-Shu Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Liang-Zhen Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Li-Hui Hou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Zhen-Xing Hu
- Outpatient Department, Xuzhou Maternal and Children’s Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Guang Shao
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Dalian Maternal and Children’s Centre, Dalian, China
| | - Jun Ge
- Department of Infertility, Tanggu District Maternal and Children’s Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jin-Feng Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanxi Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hui-Ying Xue
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Huaian Maternal and Children’s Hospital, Huaian, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Suzhou City Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, China
| | - Rui-Ning Liang
- Department of Gynecology, Second Hospital, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Hong-Xia Ma
- Department of Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Wei Yang
- Department of Infertility, Liwan District Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Li Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Dong-Mei Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun Sun
- Department of Gynecology, Wenzhou City Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Wenzhou, China
| | - Cui-Fang Hao
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Shao-Min Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Daqing Longnan Hospital, Daqing, China
| | - Zheng-Wang Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Liaoning University of Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Ying Yan
- Department of Gynecology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiu-Hua Chen
- Department of Traditional Technology, Guangdong Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Fu
- Department of Gynecology, Hangzhou City Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cai-Fei Ding
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Zhejiang Province Hospital of Integrative Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya-Qin Gao
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, Daqing, China
| | - Zhong-Ming Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hubei Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tai-Xiang Wu
- Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian-Ping Liu
- Centre for Evidence-Based Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ernest H. Y. Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Richard S. Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey
| | - Heping Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
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Alosaimi FD, Bukhari M, Altuwirqi M, Habous M, Madbouly K, Abotalib Z, Binsaleh S. Gender differences in perception of psychosocial distress and coping mechanisms among infertile men and women in Saudi Arabia. HUM FERTIL 2016; 20:55-63. [PMID: 27778521 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2016.1245448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the differences in psychosocial distress and coping mechanisms among infertile men and women in Saudi Arabia (SA). We performed a cross-sectional study of infertile patients (206 women and 200 men) attending infertility clinics in three referral hospitals in Riyadh, SA. A semi-structured questionnaire was developed to assess socio-demographic, clinical and psychosocial variables. Infertility-related psychosocial pressures were reported in 79 (39.7%) male and 97 (47.3%) female participants (p = 0.123). Males suffered more from intrusive questions and pressure to conceive, remarry or get divorced, while females were stressed more from psychological and emotional exhaustion, marital discord, attitudes of mothers-in-law or society, and persistent desire by the husband to have children. To cope with infertility, females engaged more in religious activities (p < 0.001) and spoke more to someone regarding their problems (p < 0.001). To solve their infertility problems, 50% tried to find solutions via the internet, and 38.5% of males and 51% of females reported using alternative medicines (p = 0.012). The patients with infertility in SA face multiple psychosocial stressors related to their infertility, and cope differently based on the gender and culture-specific knowledge of infertility. The female participants were significantly more affected from psychosocial stressors and the persistent desire by their spouse to have children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad D Alosaimi
- a Department of Psychiatry , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Mujahid Bukhari
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Maram Altuwirqi
- a Department of Psychiatry , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamad Habous
- c Urology Department , Elaj Medical Group , Jeddah , Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled Madbouly
- d Department of Urology , Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Hospital , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Zeinab Abotalib
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Binsaleh
- e Division of Urology, Department of Surgery , King Saud University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
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