Category Archives: Infertility and Mental Health

Impact of Infertility Treatment on Risk for Depression and Anxiety

Impact of Infertility Treatment on Risk for Depression and Anxiety

Infertility and its treatment have been shown to be a trigger for both depression and anxiety.  Women with pre-existing histories of depression and anxiety who have been stable on medication may find themselves with worsening symptoms brought on by the stress involved in the process of infertility treatment.  Many women find the process an emotional [...]

Does Depo-Provera Cause Mood Changes?

Does Depo-Provera Cause Mood Changes?

Depo-Provera (DMPA), also known as the birth control shot, is a highly effective form of contraception that lasts for 3 months, and thus requires only 4 injections per year. DMPA contains a long-lasting form of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate that works as a contraceptive agent by preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. [...]

Depression is Common Following Successful IVF

Depression is Common Following Successful IVF

Psychological symptoms play a significant role in infertility. Some studies have examined the impact of psychological symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression) on fertility status. Most of this research has focused on women with unsuccessful IVF treatment. Some have investigated the extent to which a woman’s psychological state during assisted reproductive therapy (ART, which [...]

Fertility and Antipsychotic Medications

Fertility and Antipsychotic Medications

Infertility is a problem which has gained increased attention over the past several decades. While many factors may contribute to infertility, some medications may also affect reproductive functioning and thus may have an impact on fertility. This post will focus on the antipsychotic drugs, which are now used to treat many psychiatric disorders [...]

Infertility Treatment: A Trigger for Depression and Anxiety

Infertility Treatment: A Trigger for Depression and Anxiety

While several studies have demonstrated high levels of psychological distress among women pursuing infertility treatment, few studies have assessed the prevalence of psychiatric illness in populations undergoing infertility treatment using standardized diagnostic instruments. In a recent study from Taipei Veterans General Hospital, a university-affiliated medical center in Taiwan, women attending an assisted reproduction clinic were [...]