Cognitive-behavioral therapy for idiopathic infertile couples

The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the impact of a 6-month cog nitive-behavioral therapy for infertile couples. Methods: Seventeen idiopat hic infertile couples participated in a therapy program comprised of module s to behaviorally optimize the chance of conception, improve sexual functio ning and satisfaction, reduce thoughts of helplessness and, if necessary, i mprove marital communication skills. Pre- to posttreatment changes in the t herapy group were compared to changes in two control groups. Results: The t herapy group showed an improvement in sperm concentration, a reduction in t houghts of helplessness a nd a decrease in marital distress. By the end of therapy participants practiced timed intercourse more reliably and reported unchanged sexual pleasure and satisfaction during the nonfertile period of the menstrual cycle. At the 6-month follow-up, problem-focused thoughts ha d decreased. The live birth rate was higher in the therapy group than in ep idemiological samples. Conclusion: Preliminary data suggest that cognitive- behavioral treatment may be an effective approach for the treatment of infe rtility.