The Effect of Counseling based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Mental Health and Quality of Life in Infertile Couples: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Infertility by creating serious psychological problems is an important individual problem and a significant public and social health. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of counseling based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) on mental health and quality of life in infertile couples Methods: In this randomized controlled trial 54 infertile couples referring to the Sanandaj-Iran Infertility Clinic were assigned into two groups of counseling and control by random blocking. The consulting group received 8 weekly 90-minute sessions of group counseling based on ACT. Mental Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and Fertility Quality of Life (FertiQoL) completed before and one month after the completion of the intervention. Primary outcome measures were mean score of mental health and quality of fertility life T-test and ANCOVA were used to analyze the data. Results: There was no significant intergroup difference in demographic information (p>0.05). One month after the end of intervention the mean overall mental health score in infertile couple (adjusted mean difference (aMD): -8.4; 95%confidence interval (CI): -10.4 to -6.4; p<0.001). in the counseling group was significantly less than the control group. Also, the mean overall score of quality of life in infertile couple (aMD: 14.8; 95% CI: 11.8 to 17.9; p<0.001). in the counseling group was significantly more than the control group. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate the effectiveness of counseling based on ACT on mental health and quality of life in infertile couples. So, it is suggested adding this counseling approach in the process of treatment of infertile couples.