Barriers and factors associated with significant delays to initial consultation and treatment for infertile patients and partners of infertile patients

• DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.09.002
• Publication Date: 2021-09-11T23:35:15Z
• Authors: Alice Domar; Rita Vassena; Marjorie Dixon; Mauro Costa; Elena Vegni; Barbara Collura; Marie Markert; Carl Samuelsen; Jillian Guiglotto; Eva Roitmann; Jacky Boivin
• Keywords: Health Professionals

What are the key drivers and barriers for infertile patients their partners to see an infertility specialist initiate treatment?An online, international, 30-minute quantitative survey collected data from 1944 respondents nine countries. Respondents were (n = 1037) or of 907; but not necessarily patient sample), at different stages treatment journey.The overall average times 3.2 years receiving a medical diagnosis, 2.0 attempting achieve pregnancy without assistance before treatment, 1.6 successful achieved pregnancy. The most common driver considering after consultation 1025) was equal desire within couple have child (40.8%). Of 356), 29.8% reported that transparency information healthcare professionals about expectations important. A significantly higher proportion seeking offered supportive services (61.2%) mental health (62.0%), than 207 who did seek (32.4% 36.7%, respectively; P < 0.001). Perceived cost commonly barrier (37.5% n 352) (42.0% 207). 95 discontinued 34.7% due financial impact.Respondents significant delays probably negatively impacting chances achieving Motivational coherence couples main barrier. Reported service offerings by associated with continuation journey.