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Introduction: Inability to conceive is experienced as a stressful situation by individuals and couples all around the world. Infertility is a low-control, chronic stressor with severe long-lasting negative social and psychological consequences. It seems that the nature of this problem and its effects on everyone depends on the duration of infertility. Materials and Methods: This study aimed at undertaking a quantitative assessment of the relation between psychological distress and duration of infertility in infertile patients. A prospective study was conducted in 380 infertile patients. The stress level was assessed using Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) questionnaire containing 21 items. In addition, sociodemographic information and all pertinent data were obtained through a structured questionnaire specifically designed for this study. Two-way ANOVA and X2 analysis were used to analyze the data. Results: Results of X2 variance analysis showed a significant relationship between the duration of infertility and the amounts of stress, anxiety, and depression (P<0.001, P<0.05 and P<0.0002, respectively). Moreover, 51.4% of patient with a duration of infertility for fewer than 5 years revealed normal ranges of stress. Conclusion: The findings of this research indicated an association between the duration of infertility and high levels of stress in infertile patients. Thus, identification of the sources of stress can greatly improve the quality life among these patients. Provision of appropriate education for coping with the stresses which result from chronic diseases seems to be necessary. The long period of diagnostic and treatment procedures may also have a negative impact on the sex life of infertile couples. Furthermore, we should pay more attention to infertile patients who with a long duration of infertility for more than five years. It is very important to establish psychological centers in IVF clinics so as to help these patients decrease their stresses, anxieties and depressions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: For most men and women, infertility is a life-changing experience that often carries unexpected stressors and potential stigmatization. Infertile couples may experience changes in their social networks, family relationships and even potential threats to their future together. Men and women referred for in vitro fertilization (IVF) may face additional stress undergoing this treatment, as it is physically rigorous, financially expensive, and emotionally eroding. But it seems that there is difference between infertile women and men's stress level. Materials and Methods: The aim of this study was to evaluate life stress, health stress and personality stress among infertile women and men and compare the two groups on the basis of psychosocial characteristics. Data were collected using a self-made questionnaire (Caudron Questionnaire). In addition, socio-demographic information and all other data related to the study were gathered by a structured questionnaire specifically designed for this study. MANOVA was used to analyze the data. Results: Results of MANOVA multiple analyses of variance showed women suffering from infertility scored significantly higher on all subscales of Caudron questionnaire when compared to infertile men. These scales include: health stress and sex (P<0.002), personal life stress and sex (P<0.001), personality stress and sex (P<0.0001). Conclusion: Men and women seeking treatment for infertility present a high level of stress. Involuntary childlessness is associated with higher levels of psychological distress for women compared to men. So we need to give ample attention these experiences; effective interventions require medical, psychological and socio-cultural strategies. Physicians play a key role in counseling the patients to get rid of their distress. It can be suggested that psychosocial support is important and should be different for men and women who suffer from infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]