Quality of life assessment: A cross-sectional cohort study of women availing oocyte donation with poor ovarian reserve

Objectives: This is multi-centric cross-sectional study aimed to assess the quality of life (QOL) in infertile couples with poor ovarian reserve requiring donor oocytes. Materials and Methods: A total of 968 participants were included in the study. Various socio-demographic parameters, including gender, religion, residence, occupation, family income, and previous childbirth status, were analyzed. QOL was assessed using the World Health Organization (Quality of life BREF) questionnaire, which evaluates four domains: Physical health, psychological well-being, social relationships, and environment. The questionnaire also included questions related to overall QOL and general health. Results: Participants were predominantly females (94.0%), Hindus (85.4%) by belief, and resided in urban areas (66.4%). About 72.6% comprised homemakers. Housewives constituted the most common occupation (72.6%), and a significant proportion had an annual family income ranging between 50K to 2.5L (31.2%). About 61.0% of females were found to be infertile. Female factor infertility was the primary cause of infertility (study was conducted on poor ovarian reserve (POR), causing ovum donation to be featured in the result) (61.0%). The overall QOL mean score was 71.41 ± 23.76, featuring 46.8% rated as good, 24.2% rated as very good, with 46.8% rating it as good and 24.2% as very good. The mean physical health score was 68.56 illustrating moderate level of health conditions affecting health activities (cronbach’s α= 0.75). The mean psychological score was 72.58 ± 18.41, with moderate levels of enjoyment of life and life meaningfulness, but also with frequent reports of negative feelings. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of providing appropriate support and interventions to address the physical, psychological, social, and environmental aspects affecting the QOL of couples.