Anxiety and Depression among Infertile Couples Undergoing Invitro Fertilization Treatment in Erbil City

Abstract

Background and objectives: Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide and is a major public health problem. It is identified as a significant psychosocial crisis and a pathological state. The most prevalent psychological responses in infertile couples are anxiety and depression. This study aimed to assess the status of anxiety and depression symptoms in infertile couples attending IVF centers in Erbil City. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in two private IVF centers for infertility diagnosis and treatment at Sardam and Hawler Private Hospitals in Erbil City, Kurdistan Region, from 1st September 2021 to 1st November 2022. A non-probability (convenience) sampling technique was used on 150 infertile couples. Data were collected through the interview method by using data collection tools including a socio-demographic part and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HADS). Results: The results of the present study revealed that 58% of the participants were between the ages of 29-39 years old, and 23.7% of husbands had self-Jobs, whereas wives, (26 %) were housewives, and the highest percentage of husbands and wives (14%) and (15%) graduated from university. The family income of the majority of couples was ≥1000,000IQD per month. The highest proportion 35.7% were married between 6-10 years. Levels of anxiety in wives were (13.3% mild, 16% moderate, and 7.3% severe) compared with (11%, 11%, and 6%) levels of anxiety among husbands. Wives had 17.7% mild,6.3% moderate, and 3.7% severe depression compared with 18%,3%, and 3 % depression levels in husbands. Anxiety levels were higher in wives than in husbands but no significant difference was shown for depression. Conclusion: The study found that infertile couples receiving IVF treatment had a higher proportion of anxiety and depression symptoms, which could have negative effects on treatment for couples seeking assisted conception. According to the study, couples' psychosocial intervention should be a key .......