Implementation of a web-based partnership support program for improving the quality of life of male patients undergoing infertility treatment: a pilot feasibility study

Abstract

Abstract Objectives In this study, we aimed to implement and evaluate a Web-based partnership support program to enhance the QoL of male patients undergoing infertility treatment. We conducted a pilot study involving 41 infertile couples from September to October of 2021. We used a quasi-experimental design (pre-test and post-test with comparison) involving purposive sampling. A subgroup analysis was conducted to determine which demographics of the participants would benefit from the program. Results Thirty-four participants (mean age 37.3 years; duration of infertility treatment 14.5 months) were included in the final analysis (follow-up rate 82.9%). Although there was no significant increase in the participants’ QoL under the Web-based partnership support program, the assisted reproductive technology group (P = 0.03), the no medical history group (P = 0.032), and the with experience of changing hospital group (P = 0.027) showed a significant increase in the relational subscale scores of the QoL before and after the program. The majority of the participants (n = 29; 85.3%) expressed satisfaction with the support program. Participation in the Web-based partnership support program may improve the QoL of some men undergoing infertility treatment. Trial registration Retrospectively registered at the University Hospital Medical Information Network on 26 January 2023 (ID: UMIN0000 000050153).

Keywords

• Infertility
• Male
• Quality of life
• Web browser