Psychological distress before and immediately after attendance at a male sub-fertility clinic

Abstract

Where treatment options are limited, the role of clinical consultation in providing information and support becomes more important. This study examines the immediate impact of medical consultation on male sub-fertility clinic attender's anxiety, depression, self-blame, information appraisal and perceptions of future fertility. Data were collected pre- and immediately post-consultation. Clinical information and consultation details were recorded. Results showed that anxiety levels were high before consultation. Following consultation anxiety and self-blame were both reduced while depression increased. Despite information about poor prognosis being given during consultation, participants remained overly optimistic about their chances of achieving a pregnancy. It appears that the consultation has a distinct psychological impact and possible mechanisms underlying this are discussed.