Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression in Fertile and Infertile Women undergoing IVF Treatmen

Abstract

Infertility is a chronic stressor having adverse psychological, emotional and social and impact. Infertile women often experience anxiety, depression and other psychological challenges that negatively impact their life. The present study intended to explore the effects of IVF and conventional treatment on mental health of infertile Women. Sample (N=100) comprised of 50 (n=50) fertile women and 50 (n=50) infertile women undergoing IVF treatment. The study used cross-sectional study design. Sample was selected using purposive sampling technique with age ranging from 18-40 years. Data was obtained from different public and private sector hospitals, maternity and IVF centers. Standardized instruments were used to collect data i-e to evaluate the level of distress in fertile and infertile women Urdu version of the hospital anxiety and depression scale (Zigmond & Snaith ,1983) was used to collect data. Results indicated that those infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment experience significantly higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to fertile women. The findings indicated that it is important for gynecologist, fertility specialist, IVF specialists and mental health professionals to screen out psychosocial issues at the outset of treatment and develop treatment plans and support systems which are necessary for the well-being of infertile women