Sleep quality, perceived stress and associated factors in women undergoing IVF treatment: short-term longitudinal study

Background: Despite limited studies in the literature, it is hypothesised that lifestyle factors are modifiable habits that have an impact on couples' fertility health. However, the relationship between sleep quality and infertility is an area that needs to be clarified. Objective: To determine sleep quality and associated factors in women receiving in vitro fertilisation treatment and to evaluate the changes in sleep over the treatment cycle. Methods: This is a longitudinal descriptive study conducted on 158 women in two infertility centres in Izmir, Turkey. Data were collected using the Personal Introduction Form, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Visual Analogue Stress Scale, and Physical Symptoms List. Data were collected during three different treatment periods: beginning of the in vitro fertilisation trial, oocyte pick-up day and the postembryo transfer period. Results: The sleep quality score of women progressively decreased as treatment progressed (p < .001). A strong positive correlation was determined between stress and sleep quality (p < .001). Additionally, advanced age, low education level, shift work, prolonged treatment and economic distress were associated with poorer sleep quality (p < .001). In addition, breast fullness, abdominal distension, and pain (p < .001) observed until the oocyte pick-up day, as well as nausea and fatigue during the postembryo transfer period (p < .001), were identified as physical symptoms affecting sleep quality. Conclusion: This article provides information on sleep quality during in vitro fertilisation and guides healthcare professionals to encourage and improve women's sleep quality.