[Pregnancy and birth experiences in 12 women undergoing IVF].
OBJECTIVE
Medical interventions during the perinatal period are psychologically difficult for women and research has shown this is true as well for in-vitro fertilization procedures (IVF). This study examined the impact of IVF and different medical interventions, common to both non-pathological pregnancies and IVF, through the analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data.


METHODS
Twelve women undergoing IVF evaluated their experience of pregnancy and birth using measures of post-partum depression, maternal self-esteem, and semi-directive interviews.


RESULTS
The results showed that the number of medical interventions is correlated with higher scores of post-partum depression as well as lowered scores in maternal self-esteem. Qualitative analyses of interviews showed that IVF has a complex and unique psychological impact.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study underline the need for specific psychological support for women undergoing IVF treatment.
Séjourné
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Centre d'études et de recherches en psychopatholo, université de Toulouse-II-Le Mirail, 5, allée Antonio-Machado, 31058 Toulouse, France.
Callahan
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Chabrol
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D036861:Delivery, Obstetric / Q000523:psychology*; D019052:Depression, Postpartum / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000523:psychology*; D012649:Self Concept