Experiences of Infertile Women in Unsuccessful In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Kang, Hee Sun; Kim, Mi Jong

doi:2004.10.2.119

Korean J Women Health Nurs > Volume 10(2); 2004 > Article

In Vitro

Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing 2004;10(2):119-127.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4069/kjwhn.2004.10.2.119

Experiences of Infertile Women in Unsuccessful In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

¹Department of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Korea. goodcare@hanafos.com
²Department of Nursing, Konyang University, Korea.

Abstract

PURPOSE
A Phenomenological study was conducted to investigate the experiences of infertile women who had an unsuccessful in vitro fertilization (IVF) attempt and the structure of these experiences was identified in a socio-cultural context. METHOD: In-depth interviews were done with five participants from Nov. 1997 to Feb. 1998. Data was recorded and analyzed by Colazzi's method. RESULT: Significant statements were extracted from the data resulting in 4 themes and 11 concepts. The concepts were: 'lack of information', 'unable to anticipate the outcome', 'reaffirmation of need', 'financial strain', 'emotional suppression', 'change of social relationships', 'physical fatigue', 'blaming oneself or God', 'trying different ways', 'famous place shopping', and 'praying to God'. The significant themes of the participants' experiences with IVF emerged as: "uncertainty", "burden", "blaming" and "vigorous desire". CONCLUSION: The results indicate that the care of infertile women with an unsuccessful IVF attempt should be based on a deep understanding of their personal experiences. Also, information on alternative choices should be offered and supported.

Key Words: Infertility; Life experiences; Fertilization in Vitro