An exploratory and feasibility study: does a psycho-educational workshop give added value to couples waiting for IVF treatment within NHS organisational systems?

Skinner, Pamela (2013). An exploratory and feasibility study: does a psycho-educational workshop give added value to couples waiting for IVF treatment within NHS organisational systems? University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

The aim of the study was to review psychosocial interventions, assess the feasibility of a compassion-focussed cognitive therapy stress management workshop with couples waiting for in-vitro fertilisation and analyse couples experiences of being on the UK National Health Service waiting list before accessing a fertility clinic.

The method was to invite all 122 clients on one district’s waiting list and then to analyse the characteristics of responders. The workshop was piloted with a sample assigned at random and a multiple case study approach was then used to explore the experience of couples who were waiting for IVF.

Results showed that 22% responded to the opportunity to access the workshop. Well-being scores on anxiety were in the mild category and similar to those in the literature. A higher percentage had raised scores for depression. The cohort was from a mixed heritage and educational background. The pilot suggested low feasibility for a generic intervention at this point on the NHS pathway. The case studies gave insight into the psychosocial process of waiting and generated new theories. It suggested that interventions should be related to medical reason for reduced fertility rather than the medical procedure that participants are waiting to access.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

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