From Stress to Success: The Role of Psychological Regulation and Couple Support in the IVF Process

Despite substantial advances in reproductive medicine, in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes continue to exhibit considerable variability that cannot be fully explained by biomedical factors alone. This review, conducted using a PRISMA-ScR–guided approach and synthesizing evidence from ۲۶ studies, examines the role of psychological regulation and relational support alongside stress-related biological pathways. The findings indicate that psychological peace—encompassing mindfulness, emotion regulation, and acceptance—is associated with reduced stress and improved psychological adjustment during IVF treatment, and may influence reproductive functioning through modulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. In parallel, family companionship, particularly in the form of dyadic coping and partner support, emerges as a protective factor linked to reduced anxiety, enhanced quality of life, greater treatment adherence, and lower likelihood of treatment discontinuation. Evidence further suggests that psychological and relational factors may affect multiple stages of the IVF process through biological mechanisms, including alterations in cortisol levels and ovarian function. Overall, this review underscores that IVF outcomes arise from the dynamic interplay of psychological, social, and biological factors. The integration of psychological and couple-based interventions into fertility care may contribute to improved treatment outcomes, although further research is required to establish causal relationships.

کلیدواژه ها:

In vitro fertilization (IVF) ، psychological peace ، mindfulness ، dyadic coping ، family support ، stress regulation ، HPA axis ، reproductive outcomes