Zum Problem der fetalen Reduktion bei einer In-Vitro-Fertilisations- Schwangerschaft

On the Problem of Fetal Reduction in In-Vitro-Fertilisation-Pregnancy

Based on a case study, we examined the relationship between repeated reduction puncture during an In-Vitro-Fertilisation (IVF)-pregnancy and the physical and emotional well-being of the couple involved. To avoid methodological problems of longitudinal studies on this topic due to high drop-out rates, we used a time-series analytical approach that allows a precise analysis of the relationship between treatment steps and well-being of a couple. Both partners completed standardized questionnaires over a period of 100 days covering emotional well-being and general physical complaints. We looked more carefully at two especially critical time points in medical treatment (1st and 2nd reduction puncture). The woman showed depressive mood especially at the 2nd reduction puncture, with a marked increase in physical complaints, while the man apparently remained unbothered. During the entire examination period, however, we found that the general mood of the woman impacted strongly on the mood of the man. Consequently, we suggest to include the male partner in psychosocial interventions.