Guidelines to manage women with infertility: an e-Delphi study

Abstract

Introduction: The psychosocial health problems associated with infertility is compounded in African women when prevailing cultural expectations emphasize the value of parenthood. Despite the social stigma these women endure, they are still mostly managed from a biomedical approach, especially in Ghana, the context of the study. Objective: This study explored the views of a panel of experts to reach consensus on holistic guidelines to manage women with infertility in Ghana. Methods: An e-Delphi technique was employed to retrieve information using a panel of 20 experts. Data collection was conducted in two rounds, and each participating expert was emailed the preliminary guidelines to rate based on certain criteria. Data analysis was done in accordance with the expert participants’ rating of and comments on the guidelines. Results: The final guidelines for holistic healthcare to manage women with infertility include the following interventions: Holistic healthcare assessment, psychological interventions, health education, spiritual support, relevant support from significant others; all within a therapeutic relationship. Conclusion: When healthcare providers use the final set of guidelines to manage women diagnosed with infertility, these women will receive holistic healthcare to attain optimal health and improved chances of conceiving. Keywords: Holistic approach; e-Delphi technique; psychosocial interventions; infertility.