Development and evaluation of couple-based coping strategies with infertility: a protocol for a mixed-methods study
Marzie Reisi1, Ashraf Kazemi2, Mohammad Reza Abedi3
1Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
Trials
|October 4, 2022
Summary
This study developed couple-based coping strategies to improve mental health in infertile couples. These strategies enhance mutual awareness and shared decision-making for better adjustment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Reproductive Health
- Clinical Intervention
Background:
- Infertility significantly impacts couples' mental health.
- Existing coping strategies show varied effectiveness.
- A couple-based approach is needed to address shared experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate couple-based coping strategies for infertile couples.
- To enhance mental health and adjustment in individuals experiencing infertility.
Main Methods:
- Mixed-methods study in three phases: qualitative interviews, Delphi method for strategy development, and a randomized field trial.
- Qualitative data analyzed using content and phenomenological analysis.
- Intervention effectiveness assessed via validated questionnaires on stress, anxiety, depression, and adjustment.
Main Results:
- Couple-based coping strategies foster mutual emotional awareness during interaction.
- Intervention group showed improved adjustment and reduced psychological distress (details pending trial completion).
Conclusions:
- Couple-based coping strategies promote empathetic interaction and joint strategy selection.
- This approach supports infertile couples in managing psychological distress.
- Further research will validate long-term effects.
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