Effect of Online Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Psychological Distress and Pregnancy Rate in Infertile Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated whether an online mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program could reduce psychological distress and improve pregnancy rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF).

METHODOLOGY: A total of 133 infertile women were randomized to an online MBSR intervention or a control group. The intervention included twice-weekly mindfulness sessions over 3 months. Primary outcomes were anxiety and depression, and the ultrasound-confirmed intrauterine pregnancy rate was a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

The intervention group showed significant reductions in anxiety and a significant borderline decrease in depression compared to controls. Participation in MBSR was also associated with a higher rate of ultrasound-confirmed intrauterine pregnancy. Online MBSR may effectively reduce psychological distress in women undergoing IVF, with potential benefits for pregnancy outcomes.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that online MBSR may serve as an effective complementary approach for alleviating emotional distress and potentially enhancing pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing IVF. Online MBSR programs appear to be a valuable tool for supporting women in managing infertility-related psychological challenges. Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20241002063238N1.