Psychosocial Stress and Problems toward Infertility: A Pilot Study of Differences between Immigrant and Nonimmigrant Infertile Couples in Toronto, Canada

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the psychosocial stress and problems regarding infertility and to compare the differences in these two variables on infertile couples in Canada. Fifty infertile, heterosexual individuals were selected as the study participants by convenient sampling. Participants filled out three questionnaires after their infertility appointment and were divided into two groups, depending on their immigration status. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS.26). Significant differences in infertility stress and psychosocial problems existed between these two groups, with immigrants’ scores significantly higher than nonimmigrants’ scores. Years of marriage showed positive relationships with infertility stress and problems. In addition, a positive relationship existed between years of infertility and infertility problems. Furthermore, a significant negative relationship existed between the length of time living in Canada and infertility stress. The results of this study enhanced our knowledge of psychosocial stress and problems faced by infertile couples. Findings suggest that immigrants had more infertility stress and problems than nonimmigrants. Understanding infertile couples’ stress and problems provides the basis for informing and changing nursing practices on how to work with infertile couples, adjusting health policy related to infertility treatment, and needing future research in this area.