The general hypothesis of the research is that stress decreases fertility and that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy will reduce stress and increase fertility. Secondarily, we hypothesize that stress has a detrimental effect on DNA integrity and that stress reduction will reduce DNA damage in the cell.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
HEALTH_SERVICES_RESEARCH
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
70
The intervention (CBT) will focus on teaching specific skills which are adapted for women undergoing fertility related problems. Through the sessions the participants will learn relaxation techniques such as breathing, progressive relaxation, and guided imagery. Furthermore, suggestions for making healthier choices for coping and for releasing tension will be reviewed and discussed, with an emphasis on making healthy lifestyle changes with balance and perspective rather than in a punishing or depriving way. Each session will consist of: 20 minutes of stress-reduction behavioral relaxation, 40 minutes of cognitive restructuring and 30 minutes personal tailoring of the behavioral homework between each session.
IVF Clinic Soroka UMC
Beersheba, Israel
pregnancy
Time frame: two years
DNA damage/ γH2AX
Time frame: with in IVF cycle (2 months)
decreased stress
Time frame: two months
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