Role of allied health professionals in fertility care: a scoping review.

Infertility significantly impacts people worldwide, with many pursuing medical treatments including Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). This scoping review explores the role of allied health professionals (AHPs) in fertility care and their integration into fertility care teams. A search of six databases yielded 12 studies identifying dietitians, nutritionists, counsellors, psychologists, social workers, and physical therapists (physiotherapists) as key AHPs in fertility care. The role of AHPs was broadly divided into two main areas: providing education and monitoring related to lifestyle modifications and fertility risk factors and offering psychological and psychosocial treatment and support. Dietitians educate patients on nutrition and lifestyle modifications to improve fertility. Mental health professionals, including psychologists, social workers, and counsellors, address the emotional stress of infertility and help patients cope with ART. Physical therapists perform therapies to increase chances of conception. The integration of AHPs into fertility care teams vary by location and facility practices with some working within healthcare teams and others independently. Despite guidelines, the incorporation of AHPs into fertility care is inconsistent, highlighting the need for a standardized approach. This review highlights AHP roles in providing education, lifestyle modification guidance, and psychosocial support which are valuable in enhancing patient care and potentially improving ART outcomes.