Gender perspective on quality of life, comparisons between groups 4–5.5 years after unsuccessful or successful IVF treatment

Abstract

Quality of life in men seems more negatively affected by involuntary infertility than reported in earlier studies.

Depression and Anxiety Outcomes Associated with Failed Assisted Reproductive Technologies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…Similar to other studies, ours found marital dissatisfaction was associated with treatment failure and couples whose treatment succeeded faired psychologically better at post treatment [57–59]. Yet, in some of the included studies, failed treatment did not have a negative impact on marital relationship warranting further research in this area.…”

The influence of infertility and in vitro fertilization treatment on postpartum and long-term mental health in women

“…In accordance with the results of some previous studies on the long-term effects of unsuccessful IVF treatment (20,(149)(150)(151)(152), there were indications that those who had remained childless were at increased risk of some adverse mental health consequences compared to mothers. Those who had remained childless scored higher on the GSI than those who were biological parents, indicating a higher mean level of mental health problems.…”

“…Some studies have found that psychological well-being in both men and women continues to be negatively affected the first decade after unsuccessful infertility treatment when compared to those with a successful treatment outcome or spontaneous conception (20,(149)(150)(151)(152). There is evidence of increased risks of symptoms of depression (149,150) and anxiety (149) and that levels of self-esteem (153) and life satisfaction or quality (20,149,151,152,154) are lower after unsuccessful treatment.…”

“…There is evidence of increased risks of symptoms of depression (149,150) and anxiety (149) and that levels of self-esteem (153) and life satisfaction or quality (20,149,151,152,154) are lower after unsuccessful treatment. A Swedish study by Volgsten et al (155) showed that some couples still experienced unresolved grief three years after unsuccessful treatment.…”

“…Studies have not found any differences in marital relationship satisfaction or quality of life in mothers who conceive using infertility treatment compared to those who conceive spontaneously (149,151) and that women who give birth after treatment have lower levels of anxiety and depression 3-5 years after, compared with before, treatment (157). About 3-5,5…”