Experiences of men undergoing assisted reproductive technology: A qualitative systematic review.

Abstract

Many infertile couples undergo assisted reproductive technology (ART) to increase pregnancy chances, with many of them experiencing psychosocial distress. Although research has been performed on women's experiences of ART, there is limited focus on men. This systematic review consolidated and synthesized men's experiences with ART to better understand their needs and challenges to support them. Nine electronic databases were searched from the inception date until November 2022. This review included published and unpublished primary studies with qualitative methodologies exploring men's experiences with ART. The screening of studies, methodological assessment, data extraction, and analysis were conducted by two reviewers independently. The data were thematically synthesized. Fifteen studies were included. An overarching theme of "despair to destiny" was identified, with four synthesized themes: (1) "the roller coaster ride," (2) "what made it from bad to worse?", (3) "what kept men going?", and (4) "hopeful for the future." Men undergoing ART experienced struggles, a transition of emotions, and a need for support as they attempted to cope with unknowns while remaining hopeful for future outcomes. There is a need for health care interventions and policies to address the issue to improve the well-being of male ART patients. Interventions should be tailored to the specific support groups that cater to the emotional and informational needs of male ART patients. Future research should focus on the influence of cultural sensitivities on men's ART experiences, to tailor support programs to address their psychological needs during ART.