The Experiences of Women Fertilized through Egg Donation during Their Treatment Process

Background: There has been a dramatic increase over the past few decades in the use of modern fertility technologies and the demand by infertile couples for using these techniques have increased as well. Studies exploring the experiences of women fertilized with egg donation technique in their treatment process have been rare. Aim: This study aimed to explore and explain the treatment experiences of women fertilized with egg donation. Method: This is a Qualitative study. Data were analyzed simultaneously as they were being collected and according to the conventional content analysis method. The study began in July 2013 and continued until September 2014. Fourteen unstructured, in-depth interviews were carried out with 12 infertile women who had been fertilized or had given birth to children through egg donation. One of Tehran’s referral centers for infertility was used as the study setting. All participants submitted their written consent prior to the start of the study. Results: Analysis of the findings showed "difficult and stressful treatment" as the final theme with 6 subthemes, including: 1) religious barriers, 2) treatment difficulties, 3) treatment frustration (including the following subcategories: fatigue and despair, and the experience of frequent failures), 4) dissatisfaction with the services provided, 5) confusions in treatment, and 6) Perception of relative peace. Implications for Practice: Exposure to various assisted reproductive technologies, including egg donation, is a stressful process, and providing emotional support to patients is one of the most essential care services they require from treatment centers. The results of the present study can assist in planning future strategies for meeting the specific needs of these distinguished patients.