Gynecol Obstet Fertil. 2006 Jul-Aug;34(7-8):625-31. Epub 2006 Aug 1.

[Pregnancy and birth experiences in 12 women undergoing IVF]
[Article in French]

Séjourné N, Callahan S, Chabrol H.

Centre d'études et de recherches en psychopatholo, université de Toulouse-II-Le Mirail, 5, allée Antonio-Machado, 31058 Toulouse, France.

OBJECTIVE: Medical interventions during the perinatal period are psychologically difficult for women and research has shown this is true as well for in-vitro fertilization procedures (IVF). This study examined the impact of IVF and different medical interventions, common to both non-pathological pregnancies and IVF, through the analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twelve women undergoing IVF evaluated their experience of pregnancy and birth using measures of post-partum depression, maternal self-esteem, and semi-directive interviews. RESULTS: The results showed that the number of medical interventions is correlated with higher scores of post-partum depression as well as lowered scores in maternal self-esteem. Qualitative analyses of interviews showed that IVF has a complex and unique psychological impact. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The results of this study underline the need for specific psychological support for women undergoing IVF treatment.

I am glad to see this. I remember asking my fertility doctor (whose name I will keep anonymous) about whether hormone injections could put me at a higher risk for PPD and he pretty much gave me a blank stare and changed the subject. He didn't want to address the issue at all.