Extended encounters with midwives at the first IVF cycle: a controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Psychological Well-being
• Midwifery Care

Background:

• In vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment presents significant psychological challenges for couples.
• The role of continuous, personalized support during IVF is crucial for patient experience.
• Limited research exists on the impact of extended midwife encounters on IVF patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of extended midwife encounters on women's psychological well-being during their first IVF treatment.
• To assess the impact of this intervention on women's perception of treatment procedures and staff support.
• To explore the influence on the couple's relationship and psychological effects of infertility.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, controlled study involving 166 couples undergoing their first IVF treatment.
• Intervention group (49 couples) received extended midwife encounters; control group did not.
• Questionnaires administered thrice, including assessments of psychological effects, partner relationship, and open-ended questions on care perception.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in psychological effects of infertility or partner relationship quality were observed between groups.
• Women in the intervention group reported significantly higher satisfaction with care (P = 0.01).
• The intervention did not impact overall psychological well-being but enhanced feelings of security and individual recognition.

Conclusions:

• Extended midwife encounters during IVF treatment enhance patient satisfaction and provide a sense of security and individual recognition.
• While not directly improving psychological well-being, this supportive approach is highly valued by women undergoing IVF.
• Midwifery-led extended support can be an effective component of IVF care, improving the patient experience.