The effects of cognitive interventions on quality of life in infertile women: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Abstract

Infertility can lead to significant psychological distress, including depression and anxiety, adversely affecting the quality of life and treatment outcomes for affected women. This study systematically reviews non-pharmacological interventions, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), aimed at improving quality of life, mental health, and birth rates among infertile women. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases (PUBMED/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and ULAKBİM) up to 22 February 2025, following PRISMA guidelines, with registration in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023457742). The analysis included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on CBT, with quality of life as the primary outcome. Eight studies involving 687 women met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis results revealed significant enhancements in quality of life (SMD: 1.97), alongside notable reductions in depression (SMD: -3.34) and anxiety (MD: -2.09). Additionally, a positive trend in pregnancy rates was observed (MD: 0.48). Despite the promising findings, the overall quality of evidence was deemed low to moderate due to potential biases. This meta-analysis underscores the effectiveness of CBT in improving mental health and quality of life in infertile women, highlighting the need for further high-quality research to validate these outcomes and endorse cognitive interventions in infertility treatment.