Representations of reproductive difficulties in women participating in support groups

INTRODUCTION: Women with reproductive difficulties often feel stigmatized and isolated. Information concerning their specific experience can help plan psychosocial interventions. OBJECTIVES: The study aims to analyze reproductive difficulties representations in women with different coping orientations. METHODS: Participants: 48 women (aged 24-43) from support groups arranged by the “You Are Not Alone” non-profit organization for women with reproductive issues. Based on the questionnaire “Types of Orientations in Difficult Situation”, participants were divided into three groups: approach coping (N=16), avoidance coping (N=9), ambivalent coping (N=23). Content analysis was conducted based on stories about reproduction difficulties experiences. RESULTS: CONCLUSIONS: We identified three types of representation of reproductive difficulties in women: approaching the goal of having a child; avoidance (fear of own death/illness/insanity or not having a child); ambivalent coping (alternating approach/avoidance). Funding: The study was funded by RFBR, project number 20-013-00838. DISCLOSURE: No significant relationships.