Quality of life in women and men with infertility: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE

To examine fertility-related quality of life (QoL) in men and women undergoing infertility evaluation or treatment in Spain, and to identify associated clinical, psychological, and sociodemographic factors.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional observational study.

SETTING

A hospital-based assisted reproduction unit in Eastern Spain.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 457 individuals (279 women, 178 men), aged over 18 and fluent in Spanish.

METHODS

Fertility-related QoL was measured using a validated fertility-specific questionnaire. Anxiety and depression were assessed using a psychological screening tool. Additional clinical and sociodemographic data were collected. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to examine predictors of QoL across emotional, physical, relational, and social domains.

RESULTS

Women reported significantly lower fertility-related QoL than men, particularly in emotional, physical, and social dimensions. Anxiety negatively influenced both sexes, manifesting as physical distress in women and relational strain in men. Depression had a more pronounced impact on women, especially in emotional and social areas, while in men it primarily affected relationship satisfaction. A longer duration of infertility and a higher number of treatment cycles were associated with poorer QoL outcomes, mainly in women. Older age and higher educational attainment were also linked to lower QoL in specific domains among women. Having previous children appeared to protect the couple relationship.

CONCLUSION

Infertility affects men and women differently, with women experiencing greater emotional and physical burden, and men reporting more relational distress. Integrating gender-sensitive and psychosocial support into fertility care may help improve quality of life and treatment outcomes.