[The role of psychological screening and care in assisted reproduction]

Introduction: Within the bio-psycho-social model, we assume a complex association of biological predisposition, psychological factors, especially chronic stress, as well as environmental and relational effects in the background of infertility. It has been proved that infertility itself also often causes psychological problems, especially in assisted reproduction patients, 15–20% of whom suffer from a mental disorder. The professional treatment of this co-morbidity has been shown to increase the chances of achieving pregnancy, mainly by enabling patients, through the improvement of their mental state, to show better compliance and to maintain a healthier lifestyle that also benefits reproduction. Objective: To review the existence and content of recommendations for psychological support in the main international guidelines for fertility treatment. Method: Guidelines available in English on the World Wide Web were extensively analyzed. Results: Mental health screening and care of infertility patients are standard elements in the international medical guidelines reviewed, either included in the guidelines or in separate documents, typically for both genders. Discussion: Psychological care is now an integral part of modern fertility treatment. This is most conveniently done in a stepped care approach, in the following order: screening, education, low- and high-intensity interventions. These aim to reduce infertility-related stress, improve coping and thus quality of life, which may indirectly lead to higher success rates. Conclusion: Including the reproductive psychological aspects, knowledge and methodology in the Hungarian fertility treatment protocol – soon to be revised – is timely. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(12): 455–463.