Stress and Quality of Life for Taiwanese Women Who Underwent Infertility Treatment

Abstract

ObjectiveTo describe the psychological stress and quality of life experienced by women who underwent fertility treatment in Taiwan. DesignCross-sectional, correlational study. SettingRecruitment was conducted and questionnaires administered at a reproductive medicine center in Chiayi City, Taiwan. ParticipantsInformed consent to participate was obtained from 126 women who sought fertility treatment at the center. MethodsThe Chinese Fertility Problem Inventory and Fertility Quality of Life scale were used to measure participants’ levels of fertility-related stress and fertility-related quality of life. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis were used. ResultsOverall, participants reported low levels of fertility-related stress and fertility-related quality of life; however, they had relatively high levels of stress related to need for parenthood. Women who were older, had greater body mass indexes, and consumed coffee regularly had lower fertility-related quality of life. Social and relationship concerns and stress related to need for parenthood were significant predictors of low fertility-related quality of life. ConclusionIn a culture in which childbearing is generally an expectation and an important part of family life, women who experience infertility are at risk to experience fertility-related stress. Social support and family consultation might be offered to improve women’s fertility-related quality of life.