The Emotional Impact of Infertility on the Psychology of the Infertile Couple

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate psychological effects on the male and female patients presenting with Infertility.

Study Design: Cross-Sectional study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Sindh Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Karachi from April 2021 to October 2021.

Materials and Methods: Data was collected by simple convenience sampling method after informed consent. All male and female patients presenting with complaint of Primary or Secondary Infertility were included. Patients with already diagnosed   Psychological disorders were excluded. A total of 312 patients mostly couples were interviewed on DASS21 questionnaire.

Results: Total 312 patients; 186 (59.6%) were females & 126 (40.4%) were males. Mild depression in 43 (13.8%), 86 (28.5%) had moderate while 32 (10.3%) had severe depression with female predominance. The P value was<0.001. Mild anxiety in 52 (16.7%), moderate in 52 (16.7%) & severe in 45 (14.4%). P value was <0.001. Mild stress was seen   in 37(11.9%), 30 (9.6%) had moderate & 21 patients (6.7%) had severe stress P value was   0. 026..

Conclusion: Infertility affects the quality of life &personality of the couple.  It is a major life event that brings about social and psychological problems & is responsible for low self-esteem    and fear for tomorrow.