Understanding the In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment experience of women: a qualitative study of ambivalence and treatment decision-making

Abstract

In Hong Kong, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is considered as a common infertility treatment for couples with reproductive problems. Researches have shown that women experienced high level of anxiety and depression during treatment due to the demanding medical procedure. Women always experience ambivalence in deciding whether to continue or terminate treatment. This study explored the psychosocial factors affecting treatment decision-making among women who have failed their IVF treatment. Sixteen female patients who failed to get pregnancy in the IVF cycle was recruited from a fertility clinic at a university-affiliated hospital in Hong Kong.Semi-structured interviews were conducted by one infertility counsellor and one medical social worker. Participants experienced high ambivalence in deciding treatment option.Factors affecting treatment decision-making during the course of IVF included: Healthcare communication, the physical and psychosocial implications of the treatment;physical and emotional capacity to bear the burden arising from treatment;relational resources such as spousal support;decision making pattern of oneself in balancing autonomy and dependency. Treatment ambivalent is one of the major emotional experience among women throughout infertility treatment,which might lead to emotional and relational issue such as anxiety and depression as well as conflicts or mistrust in doctor-patient and/or spousal relationships.