Immersive virtual reality as tool to reduce anxiety during embryo transfer

Area of Science:

• Reproductive medicine
• Medical technology
• Psychological health

Background:

• Virtual Reality (VR) is an immersive technology gaining traction in healthcare for simulations and patient care.
• Infertility treatments like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) often cause significant psychological distress, including anxiety and depression.
• Existing research shows VR can reduce pain and anxiety during specific gynecological procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on VR applications in medical practice, specifically focusing on infertility.
• To explore the potential benefits of VR in mitigating anxiety experienced by women during IVF cycles, particularly around Embryo Transfer (ET).
• To discuss the impact of VR on psychological burden in infertile couples.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on VR in healthcare and infertility.
• Analysis of VR's role in reducing anxiety and pain during gynecological procedures.
• Discussion of VR's proposed impact on anxiety during IVF with ET.

Main Results:

• VR has demonstrated success in reducing pain and anxiety during procedures like hysteroscopy and oocyte retrieval.
• Studies indicate VR can provide immersive experiences, potentially alleviating psychological burden.
• Evidence regarding VR's effect on pregnancy rates in IVF remains inconclusive.

Conclusions:

• VR shows promise as a tool to manage anxiety and psychological distress in patients undergoing infertility treatments.
• Further research is needed to establish the efficacy of VR in improving pregnancy rates during IVF.
• VR's application in clinical practice offers a novel approach to enhance patient quality of life during challenging medical journeys.