Anxiety and Depression Symptoms among Infertile Couples Undergoing ART in Latvia : A Cross-Sectional Non-Randomized Single-Centre Study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the presence of anxiety and depression among infertile couples undergoing infertility treatment in Latvia. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional study we compared anxiety and depression symptoms in couples diagnosed with primary infertility (111 women and 55 male), evaluating male and female symptoms separately and together. The level of anxiety and depression were measured using Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Results: Upon assessing anxiety and depression level scores mild anxiety is predominantly observed in couples undergoing ART cycles for the first time, accounting for 44.6%, compared to those undergoing it for the 2nd and 3rd time, where the prevalence is equal and stands at 40.7%. Conversely, a noteworthy trend is discerned in patients undergoing ART multiple times, revealing a higher prevalence of moderate and severe anxiety, at 18.6% and 9.3%, respectively. The highest prevalence of depression symptoms is observed in individuals undergoing their second ART cycle and beyond. Particularly noteworthy is the substantial proportion of these patients, with 36.0% experiencing mild and 17.7% experiencing moderate depression symptoms. Conclusions: The experience of undergoing artificial reproductive technology treatment multiple times is associated with heightened prevalence of depression and anxiety among infertile couples. These conclusions highlight the importance of addressing mental health aspects in the context of infertility and ART cycles.