ABSTRACT

Couples require adequate basic investigation and explanation of the data relevant to themselves. Their attitudes to this information can be significantly altered by the nature of the pathology or negative factors influencing prognosis such as female age, a major male factor or combined abnormalities that they may perceive apportion ‘blame’ equally. National problems such as poor National Health Service funding, training situations where multiple staff members are seen sequentially and variable geographical service provision all make the process of treatment or ultimate acceptance of infertility much more difficult than it need be. Factors that influence the acceptance of infertility are the patients’ perception of the adequacy of investigation, the explanation given by the professionals, the perceived expertise of those offering investigation and explanation and access to second opinions if requested. Access to trained counsellors is important as professionals, both nurses and doctors, apart from providing a sympathetic ear and a caring manner, are not trained in non-directive counselling.