Stress relief after infertility treatment--spontaneous conception, adoption and psychological counselling

In this study, we sought to evaluate characteristics of couples with spontaneous conceptions after treatment with assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

Data from 254 couples who underwent 1127 therapy cycles between November 1987 and February 1997, were analyzed. Chi-Square (chi(2)) test and Student's t-test were used. P<0.05 was considered significant.

Spontaneous pregnancies occurred in 14% of all treated couples. Psychological counselling only was performed in 21% but was observed significantly more frequently among patients without later spontaneous conception. Ten percent of all treated couples applied for adoption. The miscarriage rate was significantly higher in the group of treatment dependent pregnancies compared to the group of patients with later spontaneous conception (27% versus 9%). The spontaneous conception rate differed significantly depending on women's age and normal semen analysis.

Appearance of spontaneous conception after ART-procedures should be taken into account in the first patient's interview. Depending on women's age and andrological parameters, treatment-success will differ. The positive impact of psychological counselling for stress relief during and after therapy should also be noted, even though a statistically significant impact could not be demonstrated in the present study. Adoption should be discussed as an alternative to overcome infertility.