Assessing Infertility Literacy and Knowledge Gaps Among Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

As patients with cystic fibrosis live longer into their reproductive years, fertility concerns are rising. We hypothesized that while patients with cystic fibrosis may be informed of the impact of their disease on their reproductive potential, they remain unaware of the promising role of assisted reproductive technology in helping them conceive biological children.

We distributed a voluntary and anonymous survey to cystic fibrosis patients and organizations to assess patient understanding of cystic fibrosis-related infertility. The survey questions aimed to capture demographic information, their reproductive education regarding cystic fibrosis, and their preferences for future fertility.

Forty respondents completed the survey (median age of 36 ± 14 years). The median age reported for learning about cystic fibrosis-associated infertility was 18 years. Respondents preferred that reproductive and infertility education be provided early; 43% reported the optimal age of education was younger than 18 years while 50% reported between 18 and 24 years. Of the respondents trying to conceive, 43% of patients have been trying to conceive for 1-3 years qualifying for infertility. Yet, the majority of those patients (69%) have not been offered a semen analysis and 90% have not had previous fertility treatments.

Our findings highlight that cystic fibrosis patients are knowledgeable about cystic fibrosis-related impacts on their fertility, with high-rated self-confidence. A fraction of patients still desire to conceive but have not been provided with assisted reproductive services. We recommend the establishment of active partnerships between cystic fibrosis care teams and fertility specialists to maximize their chances of conception.