Hum. Reprod. Advance Access published online on October 22, 2009
Human Reproduction, doi:10.1093/humrep/dep367
Posttraumatic growth and social support in individuals with infertility
1 Adelphi University School of Social Work, 1 South Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530, USA 2 North Shore University Hospital, 300 Community Dr., Manhasset, NY 11030, USA 3 269F Middle Country Rd., Smithtown, NY 11787, USA 4 Figlerski Psychological Associates, 34 Round Tree Dr., Melville, NY 11747, USA 5 4250 Sunrise Highway Suite 103, Massapequa, NY 11758, USA 6 300 West 72nd St., Suite 1 C, New York, NY 10023, USA
7 Correspondence address. E-mail: mpaul{at}adelphi.edu; lspcsw{at}aol.com
BACKGROUND: While research on the psychological experiences of infertility has focused almost exclusively on the negative aspects, clinical experience with individuals and couples facing infertility has demonstrated that personal gain can also arise from the struggle involved. This study examined whether individuals who struggle with infertility report posttraumatic growth (PTG), and if perceived availability of and satisfaction with social support are associated with such growth. Other correlates of PTG are reported as well.
METHODS: Using a cross-sectional design, a convenience sample of 121 individuals with infertility completed a background questionnaire, the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory and the Social Support Questionnaire.
RESULTS: While individuals reported moderate PTG, moderate availability of, and high satisfaction with social support, there was no significant association between the variables. Infertility-related variables emerged as central to explaining PTG with those with non-female related diagnoses and unexplained diagnoses demonstrating lower PTG than others (t = 2.96, t = 3.6, respectively, P 
0.05). Additionally, live birth deliveries was positively associated with PTG (r2 = 0.22, P 0.02), and those who engaged in clergy counseling had higher PTG than those who did not (t = 2.34, P 0.02). Determinants were unexplained infertility (lower PTG) and number of live birth deliveries (higher PTG).
CONCLUSIONS: In spite of limitations related to the convenience sampling, correlational design and subjective self-report nature of the data, findings suggest that individuals who suffer from infertility can experience personal growth. Further research will help identify correlates and provide guidance for mental health practitioners on counseling infertility patients to promote growth.
Key words: infertility/posttraumatic growth/social support/infertility counseling
Submitted on June 12, 2009; resubmitted on September 15, 2009; accepted on September 23, 2009.