(107) “Can Sexual Dysfunction and Stress in Couples Attempting Conception Be Explained by the Ovulation Calculator?” An Evaluation Study
Authors: Ledesma B , Suarez Arbelaez MC , Grewal M , Marquez K , Palmerola K , Ramasamy R 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Stress and sexual dysfunction affect a significant portion of couples seeking conception, leading to emotional strain. We hypothesized that ovulation calculators, widely used as a tool to predict fertile days, may play a role in the stress experienced by couples undergoing fertility treatments. We evaluated the impact of ovulation calculators on stress levels in couples seeking fertility treatment and explored the associations with sexual dysfunction and mental health implications due to the stress of infertility.

Objective
The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of ovulation calculators on stress levels in couples seeking fertility treatment and to explore the associations with sexual dysfunction and mental health implications due to the stress of infertility.

Methods
Participants were recruited from the University of Miami Health System Clinics. Fifty couples consulting for infertility were included in the study. Both partners were asked to complete anonymous self-reported surveys consisting of validated questions related to stress levels, sexual function, and the use of ovulation calculators. The surveys included the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for females and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) for males to assess sexual function. Additionally, the Fertility Problem Inventory (FPI) was used to measure fertility-related stress and distress. The data collected included age, duration of attempts to conceive, and responses to stress-related questions.

Results
A total of 50 couples who we reattempting conception completed the cross-sectional study with all the questionnaires were included in the study. Whether or not they were using ovulation calculators, women scored similarly in the 4 variables of the FSFI, including Arousal, Orgasm, Satisfaction, and Lubrication. When evaluating IIEF scores for Male Erectile Function, the average score of men tracking ovulation was 12.0 ± 4.8, compared to 11.5 ± 5.4 in male patients who were not (P-Value: 0.81). The results showed no statistically significant difference in stress levels between couples who used ovulation calculators and those who did not. However, both male and female participants reported higher levels of sexual dysfunction in couples experiencing higher stress levels due to infertility. Fertility-related stress was also found to be significantly associated with mental health implications, with increased anxiety and depression reported by couples undergoing fertility treatments.

Conclusions
The findings suggest that the use of ovulation calculators did not significantly influence the stress experienced by couples seeking fertility treatment. However, the study highlights the significant impact of infertility-related stress on sexual function and mental health in both male and female partners. These results emphasize the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of infertility and providing comprehensive support to couples undergoing fertility treatments. Further research is warranted to explore the complex interplay between ovulation calculator usage, infertility-related stress, sexual dysfunction, and mental health implications in couples seeking to conceive. Healthcare providers should consider incorporating mental health support into fertility treatment programs to optimize patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Disclosure
No.