This Science News Wire page contains a press release issued by an organization and is provided to you "as is" with little or no review from Science X staff.

Participants needed for Australian-first study into IVF stressors

May 27th, 2025

A University of Queensland-led study tracking the mental and emotional toll of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment on patients is looking for more participants to share their experiences.

Chief Investigator Dr. Katrina Moss from the Australian Women and Girls' Health Research Center (AWaGHR) said the psychosocial effects of IVF are often overlooked.

"Up to 75% of people doing IVF will report anxiety or depression during treatment, but less than 20% will receive mental health support," Dr. Moss said.

"One in three people actually stop IVF because of the emotional burden, even when they have a good prognosis and can afford more cycles.

"There aren't any resources to help people cope with the immense ups and downs during the different phases of fertility treatment."

Dr. Moss said the research was prompted by her own first-hand experiences as a patient.

"I did 13 cycles of IVF and it's the hardest thing I've ever done," she said. "I saw a big gap in the support available to people going through the process, so I decided to do something about it."

Project Coordinator Dr. Jane Fox said study participants are emailed a short survey to complete every second day of their IVF cycle.

"They note their feelings that day and any coping strategies they've used," Dr. Fox said. "We can then track how these change across an IVF cycle, which helps us to identify how and when it's best to intervene to support people."

Associate Investigator Professor Gita Mishra said the project aims to develop a website with evidence-based coping and support interventions for patients, and information resources for partners and families.

"Our focus is on supporting women's health, and our team works in partnership with patients and clinical staff at every step," Professor Mishra said.

The study also involves researchers from Monash University and Cardiff University.

Prospective participants are encouraged to complete an Expression of Interest form.

Provided by University of Queensland

Citation: Participants needed for Australian-first study into IVF stressors (2025, May 27) retrieved 28 May 2025 from https://sciencex.com/wire-news/509798730/participants-needed-for-australian-first-study-into-ivf-stressor.html

This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.