Does IVF make people happy?

Research has been focused on exploring the negative side of IVF. However, a comprehensive picture of the overall impact of IVF needs to acknowledge its positive side. Prospective and cross-sectional research have shown that happiness can be experienced before, during and after IVF, irrespective of whether or not a live birth is achieved. Psychosocial models within positive psychology support the intrinsic benefit and adaptative effect of the action of undergoing IVF on well-being and mental health through the opportunity it affords people to achieve, accept and make meaning of their (un)realized parenthood goals. The PERMA model was used to explore the concept of happiness, with evidence showing that happiness can be achieved in IVF via positive emotions (most investigated), a sense of being engaged, positive relationships, and a sense of meaning and accomplishment. The positive lived experience of IVF can be moderated by individual patient characteristics, and enhanced by positive-focused approaches to care. High-quality research and patient-centred models of care are needed to evaluate and promote the holistic positive value of IVF in all dimensions of happiness.