Factors influencing the well-being of long-term infertile couples.
The aim of the study was to investigate factors that may influence the well-being of long-term infertile couples. One hundred and eight childless couples with a long-term infertility completed a structured questionnaire. Three groups of independent variables were discerned: sociodemographic factors, factors associated with infertility and the desire to have a child, and personality characteristics. The effect of these variables upon seven dimensions of (negative) well-being: depression, anxiety, hostility, health complaints, guilt/blame, self-esteem and sexuality was investigated. Strong negative feelings concerning infertility and a high degree of femininity were associated with a low level of well-being (among women as well as among men). To a lesser extent, secrecy with regard to infertility and being the infertile partner (among men) and still pursuing medical treatment (among women) were related to a lower sense of well-being. Recognition of these relations may help in the counselling of infertile couples.
van Balen
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F
Department of Educational Science, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Trimbos-Kemper
T C
TC
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007246:Infertility / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D011788:Quality of Life; D012307:Risk Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors