The transition to parenthood through Medically Assisted Reproduction

Introduction: The diagnosis of infertility and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) treatment can lead to emotional, social, sexual, and relational challenges that negatively impact the well-being of each partner and the couple's relationship. The aim of this study was to assess individual and relation wellbeing and delineate the psychological profile of patients undergoing ART treatment. Methods: A sample of 101 heterosexual couples (N=202) undergoing ART treatment at the Center for Assisted Reproduction of the ASST “Spedali Civili” in Brescia was recruited. Participants completed questionnaires that assess individual psychological wellbeing (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Partnership Questionnaire), relational wellbeing (Adaptation Questionnaire Interpersonal, Experiences in Close Relationships), parental self-efficacy (The Perceived Collective Family Efficacy Scale), and the experience related to infertility (Fertility Problem Inventory). They filled out a questionnaire addressing socio-demographic and fertility data. Results: Findings reveal significant gender differences in the psychological well-being related to infertility. Women report higher levels of anxiety, social concern, and fear of abandonment, suggesting a predominant impact on their individual well-being. Conversely, men exhibit higher levels of conflict and concerns related to sexuality, indicating a greater influence on couple well-being for this group. Furthermore, the results highlighted that the nature of the infertility diagnosis is a determinant of psychological well-being in terms of depression and stress for women only. Those with a diagnosis of idiopathic infertility show higher levels of depression than women with a diagnosis of infertility exclusively of their own making. Whereas if the diagnosis involves the couple, women report higher levels of stress than in cases where the diagnosis only involves the partner. The cluster analysis profiles of women and men showed significant differences over resources and risk factors. Discussion: The results highlighted individual and relational challenges associated with the transition to parenthood under infertility conditions. Specific groups of patients were found to be at higher risk for psychological symptoms, revealing areas of potential distress that should be considered for implementation of best practice points.