Relationship between Perceived Social Support and Anxiety in Pregnant Women Conceived through Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs).

Abstract

Abstract Background & Aims: Despite the fact that pregnancy after In Vitro Fertilization is often the end of infertility treatment and investigations, some of pregnant women experience high level of anxiety and stress. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship of perceived social support and anxiety in women conceived via Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ARTs). Material & Methods: In this cross sectional study, a total number of 100 pregnant women conceived Assistedthrough ARTs in three infertility centers in Tehran were included. Data collected through Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Multidimensional perceived social support Questionnaire and analyzed statistically using the SPSS version 14. Results: There was no significant relationship between anxiety and perceived social support. Conclusion: According to the findings, "family" and "special person" were most frequent statements of perceived social support questionnaire. Therefore a strong support from these sources has positive effects on mental health of pregnant women conceived through ARTs.

Keywords

• anxiety
• assisted reproduction technologies
• perceived social support