Evaluating the efficacy of an internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy intervention for fertility stress in women: a feasibility study.

BACKGROUND

Women who are trying to conceive may be at risk of experiencing psychological distress. However, only a small proportion receive appropriate care, although interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can effectively reduce levels of distress.

AIMS

Our aim was to determine the efficacy and feasibility of an internet-based CBT intervention, called Overcome Fertility Stress (OFS).

METHOD

Fifty-five women who were struggling with conception were offered 3-month access to OFS, which is a fully automated yet individualized program via pre-programmed text, video and audio files. The program tailors its intervention around the symptoms the users report to the program.

RESULTS

Significant improvements were demonstrated on infertility-related stress, with small-to-large effect sizes ( = 0.49 to 0.75). Furthermore, there was a significant decline in symptoms of depression and stress from pre- to post-treatment ( = 0.41 to 0.42, respectively). Finally, participants expressed overall satisfaction with the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary results suggest it is feasible and effective for women who experience fertility stress to receive an internet-based CBT intervention. Finally, these results add to the literature on the effectiveness of psychological treatments for those who struggle with fertility issues.