Discontinuation Decision in Assisted Reproductive Techniques

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Endocrinology and Female Infertility Department, Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Royan Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran

2 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran

3 Endocrinology and Female Infertility Department, Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Royan Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran

4 Social Medicine and Health Department, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran

Abstract

Background
In vitro fertilization (IVF) and intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are recognized as established and increasingly successful forms of treatment for infertility, yet significant numbers of couples discontinue treatment without achieving a live birth. This study aims to identify major factors that influence the decision to discontinue IVF/ICSI treatments.


Materials and methods
We studied the data of 338 couples who discontinued their infertility treatments after three cycles; based on medical records and phone contact. The main measure was the reason for stopping their treatments.


Results
Economical problems were cited by 212 couples (62.7%), as their mean income was significantly less than other couples (p <0.0001). Lack of success was reported as a reason by 229 (67.8%), from whom 165 (72%) also had economical problems. Achieving independent- ART pregnancy was the reason for discontinuation in 20 (5.9%) couples. Psychological stress, depression and anxiety were reported as other cessation factors by 169 (50%), 148 (43.8%) and 182 (53.8%) couples, respectively.


Conclusion
This survey suggests that the most common reasons for assisted reproductive technique (ART) discontinuation after three cycles are: prior unsuccessful cycles, economical and psychological problems. Therefore, the substantial proportion of couples could benefit from psychological intervention, increasing awareness of ART outcomes and health funding to cope more adequately with failed treatments.

Keywords