How Solo Moms Open Up Differently to Reis vs. Mental Health Professionals – And What It Means for Patient-Centered Care

Objective: Solo mothers are a growing fertility patient population. Mental health concerns and adjustment to future solo parenthood can affect informed consent and realistic expectations. Recognition of distress and offering adequate support is crucial for patient-centered care. Design: This archival study examined mental health concerns in solo mothers seeking third-party assistance from a private multisite clinic between 2022-2025. Eligible patients included those who were unpartnered and had completed a 1:1 psychoeducational consult in-house. Materials and Methods: Data were extracted from electronic health records using SQL Server, intake forms, physician (REI) intake notes, and psych consult reports (MHP). Data included demographics, treatment plan, reported mental health concerns, and psychotropic medication use. Descriptive statistics, current and past mental health concerns, and channel of disclosure were calculated. Results: In this sample (N= 104) of racially diverse solo mothers (average age of 40.2), 96% utilized non-identified sperm donors. 45% reported current or past mental health concerns; 29% endorsed active concerns or current psychotropic medication. Psych consult was the most common channel of disclosure (85%). 53% disclosed only to the MHP vs. 6% disclosed only to the REI. Conclusions: Nearly half the sample endorsed mental health concerns- a true prevalence rate that is likely underestimated due to fears that access to treatment may be jeopardized. Fertility treatment stress may exacerbate mental health concerns, compromise informed treatment decisions, and lead to premature drop-out. As solo parenthood and the demand for third-party assistance grow, fertility clinics must prioritize care for this population. The integration of embedded MHPs within fertility clinics can support patients with mental health concerns that intersect with their treatment and help care teams who may have limited training with regard to emotional risks.