Are there IVF-specific determinants to relationship breakdowns?

Authors

Dr Sarah Nowoweiski

Fertility treatment can be emotionally demanding and is often associated with increased stress and marital strain. This case analysis, conducted at Newlife IVF, explored the IVF-related factors that may influence relationship breakdown. Compared with population data, only a small proportion of couples undergoing treatment reported a relationship separation – and for those who did, the separation was not strongly linked to IVF-specific burdens.

Title of research: Are there IVF-specific determinants to relationship breakdowns? An analysis of a Victorian clinic’s histories of separated couples

Researchers: Dr Sarah Nowoweiski, Dr Tiki Osianlis

Background

Fertility treatment has been associated with increased marital dissatisfaction and increased stress on a couple (Arefi, 2016). Divorce rates are higher for younger married couples, but are declining over time; in 2023 there were 2.3 divorces per 1,000 residents aged 16 or over (Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2024). Counsellors working within assisted reproductive technology (ART) clinics are well placed to specifically target interventions towards building relationship resilience prior to, and during, assisted reproduction. It would be helpful to identify any key risk factors for couples undergoing ART so counsellors can target interventions.

Aim

To explore the demographic variables and psychosocial circumstances of the couples who had notified Newlife IVF of a relationship separation, and to understand if there are IVF-specific determinants contributing to relationship breakdowns to better inform and target psychosocial interventions.

Method

This quality assurance study involved the identification and review of case notes of the couples who had notified Newlife IVF, an independent Victorian ART clinic, of their relationship separation over the past five years. Frequencies were used to analyse demographic variables.

Results

A total of 43 couples had informed the clinic of a relationship breakdown over the past 5 years. This peaked in 2023 with the notification of 23 separations within this year. Both heterosexual couples (n = 36) and same sex couples (n = 7) experienced separations. Majority of couples (n = 11) had completed one IVF cycle. However, this ranged from 0 cycles (where couples separated prior to treatment) to 8 cycles. Most couples had been in a relationship for 2–4 years. However, 9 couples had been in a relationship for over 10 years prior to separating. Primary reasons cited for separations included extra marital affairs, conflicting desires for having a child, lack of support and domestic violence.

Conclusion

Comparative to population data, a very small proportion of couples undertaking treatment report a relationship separation, and the primary reasons for separation are consistent with data collected from the general population (AIFS, 2023) rather than IVF-specific burdens. Given the opportunity and availability of mental health professionals within clinics, counsellors should focus psychoeducation and support to both heterosexual and same sex couples as early as after one cycle.