Experiences of involuntary childlessness and treatment in the UK: what has changed in 20 years?

This study examined the financial, emotional and relationship impacts of involuntary childlessness and treatment, and satisfaction with support from professionals. 796 participants in the UK completed an online survey based on a survey conducted in 1997. 55% of participants had to pay for at least part of their treatment. High levels of distress were experienced and 42% experienced suicidal feelings at least occasionally. Those most at risk of suffering distress and suicidal feelings at some point had only experienced unsuccessful treatment outcomes, spent longer trying to conceive and experienced some relationship strains. 75% would like to have counselling if it were free but 45% received counselling and 54% of these had to fund some of it themselves. Thus although advances have been made in the availability of funded treatment and psychological support, involuntary childlessness and treatment continue to have financial, emotional and relationship consequences for many people. While counselling was generally reported to be useful, a whole clinic approach involving all fertility clinic staff in the psychosocial care of clients is advisable.