Exploring the Impact of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) on the Quality of Life of Lebanese Women andUnraveling the Determinants: A FertiQoL Questionnaire Validation

Abstract BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Infertility is a growing global concern, and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has emerged as a popular solution. Women receiving treatment for infertility deal with a range of physical and psychological challenges. However, there is limited understanding of the specific factors that impact their quality of life. This study looked at the current state of fertility quality of life among Lebanese women undergoing IVF and analyzed the factors that influence it. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to September 2020 among women undergoing IVF all over Lebanon. The survey collected demographic characteristics and treatment data and included the fertility quality of life scale (FertiQoL), The couple’s satisfaction Index (CSI-4), the wellbeing index (WHO-5), and the patient-doctor relationship questionnaire (PDRQ-9). General Linear Model was used to explore the predictors of fertility quality of life. RESULTS: In total, 403 women completed the survey. Participants had a mean of total FertiQoL score of 61.98 (SD = 21.15). The mean CSI-4 and WHO-5 scores were 10.15 (SD = 5.76) and 11.15 (SD = 6.56), respectively. The mean PDRQ-9 score was 29.33 (SD = 8.5). The General Linear Model showed that conceiving duration failure, no children status, facing a stigma, being underweight, and having no income were risk factors for diminished fertility quality of life. While male factor infertility, being a sedentary office worker and having religious or cultural beliefs that influence the perspective on IVF positively influenced the total score. CSI-4 and WHO-5 score had also a positive significant association with FertiQol. CONCLUSION: Lebanese women undergoing IVF have relatively acceptable quality of life. This study in Lebanon revealed that women's quality of life depends on various factors, and the validated FertiQoL measurement tool has demonstrated its reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha ranging from 0.949. Further studies with a larger sample size are necessary to validate our results and gain deeper insights.