Perceived stress levels and associated stressors in patients undergoing planned oocyte cryopreservation

To assess perceived stress levels and to identify key stressors before and after planned oocyte cryopreservation.

Cross-sectional mixed-methods study.

Academic fertility center.

Patients who underwent their first planned oocyte cryopreservation cycle.

Comparison of composite perceived stress scale-10 (PSS-10) scores before and after oocyte cryopreservation, and qualitative thematic analysis of interview transcripts.

Planned oocyte cryopreservation.

Of the 471 pre-oocyte cryopreservation orientees contacted, 110 (23.4%) volunteered to participate, and 81 (17.2%) were ultimately included in the study analysis after completing both the pre- and post-oocyte cryopreservation surveys; 20 participated in after treatment interviews. The median composite PSS-10 score was 17 before and after oocyte cryopreservation, indicating moderate perceived stress that did not significantly change after cycle completion. Before oocyte cryopreservation, the most commonly reported stressors were procedural, occupational, and partner-related. After oocyte cryopreservation, procedural stressors largely shifted toward outcome-related concerns. Qualitative analysis identified six major themes influencing stress throughout treatment: financial considerations, medication management, physical and logistical demands, stress surrounding fertility, support systems, and a sense of empowerment coupled with future uncertainty.

By integrating quantitative and qualitative findings, this study provides a nuanced understanding of how stress is shaped by financial, procedural, occupational, and emotional factors across the oocyte cryopreservation process. These insights may inform more tailored pre-cycle counseling, strengthen patient-centered support infrastructure, and guide the development of targeted interventions to improve the emotional and psychological well-being of planned oocyte cryopreservation patients.