Psychosocial Aspects of Fertility and Assisted Reproductive Technology

Psychosocial aspects of fertility, infertility, and assisted reproductive technology (ART) can significantly impact patients ’ sense of self-identity and personal agency, mental well-being, sexual and marital relationships, reproductive efficiency, compliance with treatment, and pregnancy outcomes. Research is needed to understand how stress, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and psychotropic medications impact ferti lity and infertility treatment. The psychosocial implications of ART on our society include a shift toward older maternal age at conception, the complexities of third-party reproduction, and consideration for the psychological and socioeconomic barriers to receiving care. Clinicians must understand, screen for, and identify couples struggling with the psychological and social aspects of fertility and ART.
Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics - Category: OBGYN Authors: Source Type: research