PERMA model vs. integrative-behavioral couple therapy for fertility problems: A randomized clinical trial protocol

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Psychology
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Psychological interventions can alleviate fertility issues.
• Positive Emotion, Engagement, Meaning, Relationship, Accomplishment (PERMA) is a cognitive approach.
• Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) is a behavioral approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of the PERMA model versus IBCT in addressing fertility problems among couples.
• To evaluate the impact of psychological interventions on infertility treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A three-arm parallel randomized clinical trial involving 42 couples undergoing infertility treatment.
• Interventions include the PERMA model, IBCT, and a control group receiving infertility treatment training.
• Fertility problems, intervention satisfaction, and pregnancy rates are primary and secondary outcomes, assessed via questionnaires and pregnancy tests.

Main Results:

• The study aims to measure fertility problems using a standardized inventory at baseline and follow-up points (5 and 9 weeks).
• Intervention satisfaction will be assessed at 5 and 9 weeks.
• A positive pregnancy test at 12 weeks is a secondary outcome measure.

Conclusions:

• This research will examine social, sexual, and parenthood concerns in infertile couples.
• Combined online and face-to-face interventions offer a flexible approach, especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Couple-focused counseling may yield superior outcomes compared to group counseling for fertility-related issues, potentially enhancing resilience and treatment effectiveness.