'Forward or Backward', a Grounded Theory Study of Ambivalent Psychosocial Experiences of Couples Undergoing In Vitro Fertilisation and Embryo Transfer.

BACKGROUND

Many studies have identified the negative psychological impact of in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) on couples with infertility, but there remains a paucity of research clarifying both positive and negative effects within the context of Chinese culture.

AIM: To explore the dynamic psychosocial experiences and underlying mechanisms of couples in the whole process of IVF-ET, and to construct a theoretical framework that elucidates this phenomenon within the context of Chinese social-culture.

DESIGN

A grounded theory study.

METHODS

Guided by constructivist grounded theory methodology, semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted in the reproductive medicine outpatient department of a tertiary-level hospital located in northwest China between January and October 2023. Purposive and theoretical sampling methods were used to recruit couples undergoing IVF-ET. Data were analysed through three iterative steps: initial coding, focused coding, and theoretical coding, utilising constant comparative methods and reflective memo-writing. The study is reported using the COREQ checklist.

RESULTS

Theoretical saturation was achieved after interviewing 22 couples. The substantive theory was synthesised into one core category: 'forward or backward', which captured the ambivalent psychosocial experiences of couples undergoing IVF-ET within the context of Chinese culture. This theory described three overarching stages: making the decision, undergoing the treatment, and facing the result, with each stage linked to specific promoting and hindering factors.

CONCLUSION

This study establishes a theoretical foundation for further implementation of comprehensive reproductive health management within the Chinese sociocultural context. It is crucial for healthcare providers and policymakers to focus on the dyad of couples undergoing IVF-ET, pay attention to both negatively and positively psychosocial fluctuations, and enhance both medical care and sociocultural support systems accordingly.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.