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Effect of the postcoital test on the sexual relationship of infertile couples: a randomized controlled trial
S G Oei1, F M Helmerhorst, K W Bloemenkamp
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Leiden University Hospital, The Netherlands.
Objective:
To investigate the impact of the postcoital test (PCT) on the sexual relationship and functioning of infertile couples.
Design:
Randomized controlled study.
Setting:
University hospital.
Patients:
New infertility patients were randomized to an infertility work-up with (PCT group) or without (non-PCT group) postcoital test as integral part of the investigation.
Intervention:
Performance of the PCT.
Main Outcome Measure:
Both partners completed a questionnaire on their sexual relationship and functioning at the initial visit and after 3 months.
Results:
Of 500 consecutive new couples, 304 fulfilled inclusion criteria and 290 consented to participate (PCT group: 152; non-PCT group: 138). Answers to both the first and second questionnaire were obtained from 84 couples (PCT: 43; non-PCT: 41). After 3 months, couples in the PCT group were at least as satisfied with their sexual relationship as couples in the non-PCT group with little difference having occurred in the 3 months of investigation.
Conclusion:
Overall, the influence of the PCT on the sexual relationship of infertile couples is more positive than negative.