Relationships in couples after failed IVF treatment: a prospective follow-up study

BACKGROUND: There are few studies of couples that analyse satisfaction with treatment, adoption plans and relationships in couples after unsuccessful IVF. METHODS: ENRICH marital inventory was used to describe marital dynamics and to gain information about treatment and adoption plans. A specially designed questionnaire was used. Of the 51 couples without previous children who were asked to participate after their first failed IVF cycle, 45 participated. The next stage of the study was carried out when the couples had reached the 6 months point after the first IVF cycle, and the last stage after the couples had been through one to three treatments, 1½ years after the last treatment. RESULTS: The couples displayed a stable relationship from the start as well as 1 year after the last IVF cycle. The vast majority of the couples had decided to go through with an adoption. Seventy-three per cent of the women were interested in more IVF treatment compared to 33% of the men. CONCLUSION: The stresses associated with IVF treatment did not have a negative impact on the couples' appreciation of their relationships during and after the treatment period. After treatment had been completed, the couples seemed to have reoriented themselves toward other solutions to childlessness.