Experiences of Infertile Couples of West Bengal With Male Factor, Female Factor, and Unexplained Infertility Factor: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Infertility is a very stressful life state of a couple. The consequences of infertility have a considerable differential effect not only on couples but also on culture and social strata. Inability to conceive can be a very troublesome matter for a couple and potentially it can turn into a traumatic experience with far-reaching consequences. Qualitative understanding of strain can be helpful for in-depth understanding of factors that might need psychosocial intervention. Objective: The purpose of this study is to zero in on the multiple psychosocial aspects of infertile couples, ranging from male etiology, female determinants, and unexplained domains of infertility. Materials and Methods: This was a qualitative cross-sectional content analysis study. 15 couples were interviewed with the mean age of (27± 2.95) years for females and (30±2.43) years for males. Data collection strategies employed in this research included semi-structured open face-to-face interviews and field notes. Results: Qualitative data analysis identified 5 themes—negative emotional reactions, social pressure, marital and sexual dissatisfaction, decreased quality of life, and treatment problems. Conclusion: The various psychosocial crises (unfulfilled maternal instinct, emotional support, unmet social role, diminished social security) related to various types of infertility are evident. Addressing those issues might be helpful to improve the quality of life of couples.