Assessment of stressors and coping strategies of infertile women

Abstract

We conducted a descriptive study to evaluate the stressors and coping strategies of 150 infertile women presenting to Tabriz Al-Zahra Hospital since Aug. 2000 to Feb. 2002. Tiredness due to frequent trips to the clinic was the most common physical stressor in 67.3% of cases with severe and very severe intensities; and anxiety about effectiveness of treatment was the most common mental stressor in 87.3% of cases with severe and very severe intensities. Of affection-oriented coping strategies, praying and trust in GOD was the most used coping strategy (79.3%). Of the problem-oriented coping strategies, accepting the situation was used always in 74%. Psychosocial stressors were more frequent in comparison with physical stressors. So, obviating the affective problems of infertile women will have significant role in decrease of their stress and anxiety.