Journal of Fertilization: In Vitro - IVF-Worldwide, Reproductive Medicine, Genetics & Stem Cell Biol
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Impact of a Structured Yoga Program on Anxiety in Infertility Patients: A Feasibility Study

Sona Jasani, Beth Heller, Sue Jasulaitis, Marie Davidson and Jennifer Hirshfeld-Cytron

Background: Anxiety has been shown to worsen over time during infertility treatment. The psychological burden of treatment itself can lead to patient drop out. Yoga has been used as a stress reliever in other areas of health care.

Objective: The objective of this study is to assess whether a structured yoga intervention can decrease anxiety levels measured by the Spielberger state-trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) in patients with infertility.

Study design: A prospective feasibility study was conducted. One hundred eleven participants undergoing infertility treatment at a large infertility practice were recruited and enrolled. All subjects self-selected to participate in the control group or the yoga group and completed the Spielberger state-trait Anxiety Inventory at baseline and at a six week follow up. Seventy-nine participants completed both time points. “State” and “trait” anxiety scores were compared between the control and yoga groups. Paired t-tests and multivariate logistics regression were performed for statistical analysis via the SPSS software.

Results: Mean state and trait anxiety scores were significantly lower in the yoga group versus the control group (p<0.014 and p<0.001 respectively).

Conclusion: Mean state and trait anxiety levels were significantly lower after a structured six-week yoga intervention in patients with infertility. These results suggest that yoga may have a beneficial role in reducing anxiety in patients with infertility. Ideally, this may translate to decreased drop out and increased ability for patients to be successful.