"Investigation of Anxiety and Depression in Infertile Couples at The Start of The IVF Procedure"

Lampraki M, Margariti A, Margariti E and Koinis A

Published on: 2024-11-06

Abstract

Introduction: Infertility is a major challenge for couples wishing to have children, causing severe emotional and psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. These psychological effects are particularly pronounced when couples decide to embark on assisted reproductive procedures such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

Aim: This study aims to assess levels of anxiety and depression in infertile couples at the start of an IVF procedure, and to identify factors that influence their psychological state, such as duration of infertility, previous attempts and social support. In addition, it examines whether there are differences in psychological reactions between men and women.

Methodology: To collect data, 4 questionnaires assessing anxiety and depression and quality of life of fertility in men and women experiencing fertility problems will be used to be completed by 50 couples starting the IVF procedure. Specifically, the FertiQoL questionnaire, The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the Questionnaire for the Investigation of Depression, the Zung Depression Self-Assessment Scale (SDS) and a questionnaire of demographic and personal data.  Participants will be divided into groups according to the duration of infertility and the number of failed attempts. Their demographic characteristics and the social support they receive will also be taken into account. Statistical significance will be set at 0,05 (95 % confidence interval). The analysis will be carried out using the statistical package IBM SPSS STATISTICS 25.

Results-Conclusions: The expected results are likely to show that women have higher levels of anxiety and depression than men at the onset of IVF. In addition, levels of anxiety are expected to be higher in couples with longer duration of infertility and in those who had experienced failed attempts. In addition, we expect social support to play an important role in reducing anxiety. The research will demonstrate the need for psychological support for couples during the IVF process in order to improve their emotional state and enhance the chances of successful completion of the procedure.