Does emotional distress affect sleep quality during in vitro fertilization?

This study investigated the effect of emotional distress during in vitro fertilization (IVF) on sleep quality. 

They found that anxiety was a predictor of poor sleep quality in women undergoing IVF. 

Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are used to treat infertility. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an ART. IVF can be successful in overcoming infertility. However, it can be stressful for patients. IVF involves complicated procedures. These may be invasive. Many women undergoing IVF report emotional distress. This includes anxiety and depression. Emotional distress can arise from the IVF procedures. It can also be caused by the pressure associated with failed attempts to conceive. 

Sleep is important for physical and mental health. Hormone levels can affect sleep quality during pregnancy. Similarly, sleep disruption (SD) can affect female reproductive hormones. SD may reduce the chance of IVF success. It is important to understand the factors that might cause poor sleep quality. It is unclear if emotional distress affects sleep quality in women undergoing IVF. 

This study included 97 women undergoing IVF. Patients were asked to complete surveys before and during the IVF process. These included questions on emotional distress parameters (anxiety and depression) and sleep. Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). This index measured SD, sleep duration, and sleep efficiency. 

30% of patients had poor sleep quality. 18.8% of women needed more than 30 minutes to fall asleep. 56.2% of patients had less than 7 hours of sleep per night. 43.6% had a sleep efficiency lower than 85%.

Anxiety and depression were associated with poorer sleep quality. High anxiety levels were a predictor of poorer sleep quality.

The authors concluded that anxiety during IVF procedures was a predictor of poor sleep quality

The number of patients in this study was low. Anxiety, depression, and SQ were self-reported. This means the results could be biased. More studies are needed.

If you have any concerns regarding infertility please consult with your physician.