Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
2
Reproductive and Family Health Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
10.22034/hp.2026.590469.1090
Abstract
Background: Infertility is associated with substantial psychological and spiritual distress. In pronatalist societies, women with primary infertility—even when attributed to male-factor causes—often experience disproportionate stigma and emotional burden. Spiritual well-being (SWB) may serve as an important coping resource. This study aimed to assess SWB and its socio-demographic, clinical, and interpersonal determinants among women with male-factor primary infertility.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study (2024–2025), 150 women with confirmed male-factor primary infertility who were candidates for intrauterine insemination (IUI) were recruited using proportionate stratified sampling from two tertiary infertility centers in Kerman, Iran. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and the Paloutzian and Ellison Spiritual Well-Being Scale. Statistical analyses included independent-samples t-tests and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).
Results: The mean age of participants was 31.36±5.12 years, and the mean duration of infertility was 4.78±3.37 years. Mean scores were 35.29±3.86 for existential well-being, 28.01±3.22 for religious well-being, and 63.30±5.76 for total SWB, indicating a moderate level. Higher educational level was significantly associated with existential well-being and total SWB (P=0.003 and P=0.002, respectively). Greater religious adherence was associated with higher total SWB (P=0.048). Perceived family support was significantly associated with all SWB dimensions (P<0.05). The number of prior IUI attempts was positively associated with religious well-being and total SWB (P=0.009 and P=0.008, respectively).
Conclusion: Women with male-factor primary infertility demonstrated a moderate level of SWB, influenced by educational level, religiosity, family support, and treatment history. Integrating holistic, family-centered, and culturally sensitive spiritual care into infertility services may help reduce psychosocial burden and improve overall well-being.
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