Perceived social support in infertile couples and its individual-social predictors

Abstract

Background and purpose: Today, infertility has become a social concern and is associated with numerous problems and social support as a protective factor can have a significant impact on health and social functioning.The present study has been carried out with the aim of determining perceived social support status and its individual- social predictors in infertile couples referring to infertility center of Alzahra Hospital, 2012-2013. Material and Methods: This cross- sectional study has been carried out on 345 infertile couples. The purposive sampling was carried out in this study. The data were collected using social- individual and perceived social support questionnaire (MSPSS). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine relationship between perceived social support and individual- social criteria. Results: The mean (standard deviation) of total score of perceived social support in infertile men and women, were respectively, 42.28 (8.24) and 39.48 (9.19) from the range of acceptable score between 12- 60. The mean score (standard deviation) of social support from family sources was the highest one. Sufficient income for living expenses variable ininfertile women and education and sufficient income for living expenses variables in infertile men were the predictors of perceived social support. Conclusion: In the present study, women had higher perceived social support compared with men and they perceived more support from their families. So, intimate relationships with respect in promoting a sense of social support in infertile couples is recommended.