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Open Access 01-12-2022 | Infertility | Study protocol

Development and evaluation of couple-based coping strategies with infertility: a protocol for a mixed-methods study

Authors: Marzie Reisi, Ashraf Kazemi, Mohammad Reza Abedi

Published in: Trials | Issue 1/2022

Abstract

Background

Different coping strategies have been associated with various effects on infertile couples’ mental health. Considering the close interaction between couples, the present study aims to develop coping strategies for infertile couples using a couple-based approach.

Methods

The present mixed-methods study will be conducted in three phases. In order to develop coping strategies, a qualitative study will be conducted in the first phase, during which semi-structured interviews will be implemented with infertile couples in order to collect data related to their lived experiences in using coping strategies. These data will be inductively analyzed using qualitative content analysis and interpretative phenomenological analysis. In the second phase, using the Delphi method, an initial draft of coping strategies will be designed using a couple-based approach based on the data obtained from the qualitative study and the related literature review. In the third phase, the designed couple-based strategies will be provided to two groups of infertile couples as a randomized field superiority trial study. The couples’ levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and adjustment will be evaluated using validated questionnaires before and 3 months after the intervention.

Discussion

Couple-based coping strategies encourage couples to become aware of each other’s feelings while interacting and choose a strategy based on such feelings.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20191014045102N1. Registered on 19 October 2021. Protocol version: Current protocol: version 1 (22 May 2022)

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Title: Development and evaluation of couple-based coping strategies with infertility: a protocol for a mixed-methods study
Authors: Marzie Reisi
Ashraf Kazemi
Mohammad Reza Abedi
Publication date: 01-12-2022
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Infertility
Mood Disorders
Infertility
Affective Disorder
Published in: Trials / Issue 1/2022
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6215
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-022-06795-8

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Development and evaluation of couple-based coping strategies with infertility: a protocol for a mixed-methods study

Abstract

Background

Methods

Discussion

Trial registration

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Discussion

Trial registration

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