Mindful self-compassion (MSC) as an intervention for infertility related distress: A pilot self-help version of MSC

Abstract

Approximately one in six Canadian couples who are attempting to conceive experience infertility or the inability to conceive a child despite frequent attempts. This infertility is a significant public health concern since it appears that the experience of infertility, particularly in women, has been associated with increased levels of depression, anxiety, and distress along with decreased levels of resilience. Additionally, no evidence-based treatment has been identified to treat infertility related distress. Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) is a relatively novel treatment that involves learning mindfulness techniques with an explicit focus on self-compassion. Previous literature has indicated that women report lower levels of self-compassion than men. Increased levels of self-compassion have also been shown to have moderate and significant effects on people’s reports of depression, stress, anxiety, and selfcriticism. These results suggest that exploring the benefits of a self-compassion intervention such as MSC in a sample of individuals who are attempting to become pregnant and also distressed by the psychological impacts of infertility is a worthwhile endeavor. The current study implemented an 8-week self-help MSC intervention for individuals who were experiencing infertility related distress. In the current study, the MSC intervention yielded significant improvements in fertility related quality of life, anxiety, depression, mindfulness, and self-compassion. These findings suggest the clinical utility of an 8-week self-help MSC intervention and elucidates a clearer path forward for individuals experiencing the psychological impacts of infertility.