Quality of Life, Anxiety and Depression in Turkish Women Prior to Receiving Assisted Reproductive Techniques

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the quality of life and anxiety-depression levels of patients prior to receiving assisted reproductive techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional research was conducted in the In-Vitro Fertilization Unit of a private University’s Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Study participants consisted of 160 individuals diagnosed as infertile whose treatment plans were determined, as well as 160 reportedly healthy fertile individuals (n=320). Each participant completed the Patient Identification Form, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory and Quality of Life Scale questionaires. RESULTS: The results of this study indicate a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety in the infertile group (p<0.05). Also, quality of life scores were found to be lower in the infertile group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Individuals who experience infertility need psychological support in order to overcome the psycho-social difficulties they experience. It is essential to have studies that stress the importance of integrating psychological and emotional support into clinical practice.