Consulting patients and providers of assisted reproductive technologies to inform the development of a group psychological intervention for women with infertility

Abstract

ObjectiveTo consult providers and women patients of Assisted Reproductive Technologies regarding their preferences for the format, duration and content in the development of a group psychological intervention. MethodsProviders and current and past women patients of Assisted Reproductive Technologies completed an online cross-sectional survey comprising items about session content, number, frequency, timing, format, delivery mode and inclusion of experiential practice of psychological strategies to promote well-being. ResultsEight providers, 51 current women patients and 51 women who previously underwent Assisted Reproductive Technologies participated. Sixty-two percent of participants indicated a group psychological program would be helpful; and 34% thought it may be helpful. Face-to-face was the preferred delivery mode (42%). Seventy-one percent preferred 60-min sessions held fortnightly (64%), with six sessions most acceptable (24%). Most respondents (74%) felt group participants would likely complete at-home practice. Detailed thematic content from participants highlighted a complex range of consumer challenges. Relevant behaviour change techniques were verified, with those to be included identified as: feedback and monitoring, regulation, self belief, reward and threat, natural consequences, identity, support, shaping knowledge, and comparison of outcomes. ConclusionProviders and patients were supportive of the development of a group psychological intervention to provide support for women undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technologies. InnovationThe results of this study provide insight informing the co-design of a group psychological program for women with infertility.