Sociodemographic determinants of in vitro fertilization acceptance: a national cross-sectional study of 8,000 Polish adults.

RESEARCH QUESTION: What sociodemographic factors determine public acceptance of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in Poland, and how do these factors influence treatment accessibility?

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis of the 2024 Polish National Fertility Test, a nationwide population-based survey examining attitudes toward assisted reproductive technologies. Multivariate logistic regression identified predictors of IVF acceptance across sociodemographic strata.

RESULTS

Among 8,000 respondents, overall IVF acceptance was 39.3% (3,135/8,000), with significant demographic disparities. Women demonstrated substantially higher acceptance than men (44.1% vs. 31.3%; OR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.57-1.90, p < 0.001). University education strongly predicted acceptance compared to primary education (p < 0.001), as did urban versus rural residence (p < 0.001). Financial barriers significantly impacted treatment decisions, with 5.0% of respondents reporting abandoned IVF plans due to costs-disproportionately affecting women (6.4% vs. 2.8% in men, p < 0.001). Younger respondents showed greater acceptance (mean age 37 vs. 39 years, p < 0.001). Educational attainment emerged as the strongest predictor, with a clear gradient from primary through university education.

CONCLUSIONS

IVF acceptance in Poland varies by gender, education, residence, and socioeconomic status, with financial barriers remaining a significant obstacle to access.