Gefen-Rimon- Fertility Preservation Workshops for Women Considering Fertility Preservation

Introduction: Women who have yet to have children, face the option of oocyte freezing for fertility preservation. However, there are significant gaps in women`s knowledge regarding the process, effectiveness and optimal age (until 35 ) of oocyte freezing for fertility preservation. Due to the knowledge gap regarding fertility preservation and the distress that may accompany not having a partner during the prime age for reproduction, The Gefen- Rimon Mind/Body Fertility Organization have designed a pilot program to offer counseling to women in their 30`s considering fertility preservation.

Aim: The purpose of this study (currently in process) is to examine the effects of participation in a Mind/Body support group for women considering oocyte freezing on depression, anxiety, perceived stress and their decision-making process.

Materials & Methods: This is a prospective study with a pre and post intervention and narrative data collection regarding participant`s experience. Women in their early to mid-30s considering fertility preservation participated in a workshop integrating psychological support and other Mind-Body stress reduction therapy. Women were administered the following scales before and after the six-week intervention:

1. PSS - Perceived Stress Scale;
2. STAI – State-Trait Anxiety Inventory;
3. CES-D-R-10 – Center for Epidemiologic Studies Short Depression Scale;

as well as self-reported narratives regarding the benefit of the intervention

Results: Preliminary results (to be presented at the conference) from the narrative component of the study point to cognitive reframing regarding women’s decision-making process. Women are educated about the fertility preservation option and are thus empowered to make the right decision for them regarding marriage, partnership and motherhood. The group support is a crucial component to the process.

Conclusions: Counseling regarding fertility preservation empowers and aids single nulliparous women to make an informed decision and reduces stress.