The long-term psychosocial effects of infertility.
OBJECTIVE
To explore the psychosocial effects of infertility and the role that social support plays over time. The major hypothesis was that although infertile persons report less contentment, lower levels of marital and sexual satisfaction, and lower self-esteem over time, those with higher levels of social support will be less affected.


METHODS
Four questionnaires were completed in subjects' own homes, one every 9 months.


METHODS
Subjects, all of whom perceived themselves as infertile, were recruited through the national newsletter for an infertility support group. Ninety-four subjects entered the study, and 41% of the sample completed it.


METHODS
Contentment, marital satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, self-esteem, sex-role identity, press (the measure of perceived internal and external pressures), and social support.


RESULTS
Perceived support (F[3, 111] = 4.77, p < 0.004), as well as contentment and self-esteem, significantly increased over time (F[3, 111] = 12.03, p < 0.0001, and F[3, 111] = 5.378, p < 0.002, respectively). Social support was positively correlated with all dependent measures.


CONCLUSIONS
Contrary to what was hypothesized, infertile persons experienced increased social support and greater contentment over time. As hypothesized, there was a significant positive relationship between social support and all dependent measures. The positive impact of social support, counseling, and the adoption of strategies to deal with the stress of infertility lends credence to the crucial role nurses can play in helping infertile couples cope.
Hirsch
A M
AM
School of Nursing, Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA 98447, USA.
Hirsch
S M
SM
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D007246:Infertility / Q000523:psychology*; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008393:Marriage / Q000523:psychology; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012649:Self Concept; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors