The art of communicating ART results: an analysis of infertile couples' experience

Abstract

This study's objective was to evaluate the current practice of communicating the results of the first assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle to couples, and couples' level of satisfaction with the current communication practice, in a non‐experimental, cross‐sectional design. A convenience sample of 46 couples experiencing their first ART cycle were recruited from a network of nine ART centres in the American Midwest. Couples completed a written questionnaire that measured their satisfaction with the way in which the results of their first ART cycle were communicated to them, and ways in which the communication process could be improved. Overall, couples were satisfied with the current communication process. However, statistical differences were noted between respondents who received positive versus negative ART results. Non‐pregnant couples felt there was a better way to communicate the results and were less likely to call the clinic for support after receiving the results. Furthermore, the majority of couples wanted a follow‐up call from a member of the healthcare team. The findings suggest healthcare professionals need to be sensitive to couples who have negative results from their first ART cycle, and follow‐up calls may further support the communication process.