Psychological Distress, Dyadic Coping, and Quality of Life in Infertile Clients Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology in China: A Single-Center, Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE: Infertile clients undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) are exposed to a stressful situation and evidence has highlighted the importance of dyadic coping in reducing stress, yet little is known about the associations between psychological distress, dyadic coping, and quality of life in this population. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China. A structured questionnaire was administered online to assess psychological distress, dyadic coping, and fertility quality of life. Sociodemographic information was collected. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and stepwise regression models were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: Of 715 infertile males and females who completed the survey. Results showed that there was a negative association between psychological distress and quality of life. The use of positive dyadic coping was associated with better quality of life, whereas negative dyadic coping might contribute to worse quality of life. Moreover, males reported having a better quality of life in contrast to females. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study highlighted the significant associations between particular dyadic coping and quality of life in clients undergoing ART. Healthcare professionals should recognize the significance of dyadic coping in the context of ART and consider improving clients’ quality of life through coping-oriented interventions.