Socio‐Demographic Characteristics and Stress Perceptions Among IVF Patients: The SOFIA‐1 Study in Northern Germany

Anne-Kristin Kuhnt, Georg Griesinger, Sören von Otte and Heike Trappe
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Anne-Kristin Kuhnt: University of Rostock, Germany
Georg Griesinger: Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, University Hospital of Schleswig‐Holstein, Germany / University Fertility Centre Luebeck and Manhagen, Germany
Sören von Otte: Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig‐Holstein, Germany / University of Kiel, Germany
Heike Trappe: University of Rostock, Germany

Social Inclusion, 2025, vol. 13

Abstract: Emotional and psychological distress is common among patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, few studies have examined stress perception at standardized stages of treatment or tested methods for integrating socio‐demographic data collection into clinical workflows. The two main objectives of this pilot study (SOFIA‐1) are to assess the feasibility of collecting sensitive data from IVF patients and to investigate the factors contributing to stress during IVF treatment. To accomplish these objectives, an anonymous, digitally administered survey was embedded in the clinical routine at two fertility clinics in northern Germany (Lübeck and Kiel). Women undergoing their first IVF cycle were invited to voluntarily participate in accordance with ethical standards. The survey included socio‐demographic and treatment‐related variables, such as items on stress perception. High completion rates and acceptable response rates at both clinics demonstrate the feasibility of collecting such data during treatment. Many participants in our sample (? = 101) experienced significant psychological distress at the start of treatment, particularly those with longer infertility histories or previous experiences at other clinics. Stress levels were influenced by individual, partner, and relationship factors, underscoring the importance of using more detailed assessment tools, such as fertility‐specific stress scales. The SOFIA‐1 study provides a methodological basis for larger, multicenter studies that explore the psychosocial aspects of fertility care. Expanding data collection could highlight differences in psychological support across clinics and reveal unmet needs. Including alternative reproductive goals and addressing social pressures can promote a more inclusive, patient‐centered approach to IVF treatment.

Keywords: infertility; in vitro fertilization; perceived stress; reproductive justice; social inequality; treatment‐related characteristics (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:cog:socinc:v13:y:2025:a:10628

DOI: 10.17645/si.10628

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