Relax, go to counselling for better IVF chance
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Women who take part in group counselling and relaxation techniques have more than double the chance of falling pregnant through IVF (Stock Image)
Tuesday October 20 2009
Women who take part in group counselling and relaxation techniques have more than double the chance of falling pregnant through IVF, a small US study suggested today.
Attending up to 10 sessions of a specialised mind-body programme boosted pregnancy rates for those undergoing fertility treatment.
The effect was most profound among patients who considered themselves to be depressed.
Holistic
The findings were presented at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Dale McClure, ASRM president, said: "It's clear that a holistic approach to infertility care leads to better outcomes."
Dr Alice Domar, who led the study, said: "We know that stress and infertility have a connection but it's been very controversial for a few years.
"We know that stress is the most common reason women drop out of treatment."
hnews@herald.ie
- Jane Kirby
