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Several recent studies have indicated that a significant number of patients drop out of infertility treatment programs voluntarily, not for financial reasons or on the advice of their physicians. Initial evidence suggests that psychological issues may play a major role in the patient’s decision. (Infertility Treatment Update®, Winter 2005)
One study showed that acute stress measures had negative effects on the outcomes of successful pregnancy and live birth delivery. A 1-point increase in acute positive affect on the PANAS scale was associated with a 7% lower risk of no live birth delivery. (Klonoff-Cohen et al. Fertil Steril 2001;76:675-687.) The #1 reason patients drop out of fertility treatment is not because their physician was discouraging them from continuing, but because of the psychological burden. (Domar AD. Impact of psychological factors on dropout rates in insured infertility patients. Fertil Steril 2004;81:271-273.) Many patients seeking help with infertility drop out due to “emotional cost.” Studies show that patients receiving care from specialists have a much lower dropout rate. (Gleicher N, et al. Infertility dropout and insurance coverage. Obstet Gynecol, 1996;88:289-293.)
Studies show participants in mind-body programs can benefit greatly, and there is increasing evidence that participating in a Mind-Body program may help more patients become pregnant:
Studies conducted by Alice Domar, PhD, showed substantial increases in pregnancy rates for mind-body participants. One study showed that 42% of participants conceived within six months of completing the Domar 10-week program.1 Another study showed 55% and 54% live birth rates for participants in mind-body and support group programs respectively, compared with only 20% of the control Group. 2 (1A. Domar, et al. Journal of the American Women’s Association, 1999, 2A. Domar, et al. Fertility and Sterility, 2000) Results for participants in the FPNC 10-week program showed an average pregnancy rate of 65% within six months. Data from these same participants demonstrates significant decreases in depression, anxiety and stress, decreases in physical symptoms relating to stress, and a stronger ability to cope.
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