Dynamics of Social Support and its Relation with Psychological Wellbeing among Women Undergoing In vitro Fertilization Treatment

Abstract

Infertility is a growing global health issue, and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has become a common treatment option. However, the physical and psychological demands of IVF can adversely affect women's mental health and treatment outcomes. Social support has been recognized as a protective factor in managing health-related stress, but its role among women undergoing IVF remains underexplored. This study aims to examine the impact of perceived social support on the psychological wellbeing of women undergoing IVF.A total of 284 women participated in the study, including 142 women undergoing IVF treatment and 142 naturally pregnant women as a control group. Participants were selected from Telangana and Karnataka using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Data were collected using a self-structured demographic questionnaire, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). The results revealed significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among IVF participants compared to the control group. Additionally, IVF women reported lower levels of perceived social support. A significant negative correlation was found between perceived social support and psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress) among IVF participants. Furthermore, perceived social support emerged as a significant predictor of better psychological wellbeing in women undergoing IVF. These findings suggest that enhancing social support may improve mental health outcomes for IVF patients. Mental health professionals and fertility care providers should consider integrating social support strategies into treatment plans to promote psychological resilience and improve the overall experience of women undergoing infertility treatment.