End of assisted reproductive technology treatment: lived experience of couples

Introduction: One of the most complex phases of the Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR) treatment is the end of the treatment. In the MAR context, there is not a clearly defined biological endpoint, and this absence makes the decision to end MAR treatment extremely difficult to make. In accordance with these premises, this contribution aims to investigate the lived experiences of couples ending MAR treatment, focusing on the decision-making process and the decision’s meaning. Methods: The sample involved couples who have completed the MAR treatment. Participants were asked for socio-demographic data by linking to an online questionnaire developed on the Qualtrics platform. The interviews were semi-structured and involved both members of the couple. Content analysis was conducted to identify areas and sub-areas related to the end of MAR treatment. Results: Two couples were involved in the interviews. The findings provide an illustration of the experience related to the end of treatment. The resulting coding system considers five areas: the MAR pathway and the associated clinical and psychological difficulties; the emotional implications of the end of treatment; the decision-making process leading to the end of treatment; the doctor-patient relationship and communication; and the prospects for the future of the individuals and the couple. Discussion: Findings explored the phenomenon of the end of MAR treatment and the decision-making process related to it. This contribution highlights the need for participants to give meaning to MAR treatment discontinuation. The end of treatment could occur in clinical and relational contexts that pose complexities in the process of elaborating the end. The general awareness regarding the end of treatment is promising and supports the potential uptake of promoting psychological well-being at this complex phase.