Effects of Infertility and Assisted Reproductive Technology on Sexual Function and Behavior

Sponsor
McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre
Study ID
NCT07376109
Status
Recruiting
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Conditions

  • Assisted Reproductive Techniques
  • Infertility
  • Infertility Assisted Reproductive Technology
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Sexual Dysfunction Female
  • Sexual Dysfunction and Infertility
  • Sexual Function

Eligibility Criteria

Sex
FEMALE
Age
18 Years - 44 Years
Healthy Volunteers
Not accepted

Study Details

This cross-sectional observational study examines how infertility and the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) are related to sexual function and sexual behaviors in women seeking fertility treatment. Infertility and the stress of ART may be associated with changes in sexual desire, satisfaction, and activity. The purpose is to better understand these associations to support the sexual health and overall well-being of women undergoing fertility care. Women who are assigned female at birth, under 45 years old, diagnosed with infertility, and attending appointments at the MUHC Reproductive Centre are invited to take part. Participants will be asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire while waiting for their clinical visit. The questionnaire includes the validated Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), which measures different aspects of sexual function, and additional questions about sexual activities, such as frequency of intercourse and other behaviors before and after fertility treatments. Participants will not provide any identifying information. Completed questionnaires will be placed in a secure collection box to protect confidentiality. Data from approximately 500 participants will be analyzed to explore how infertility type (primary vs. secondary), duration of infertility, and the number of unsuccessful ART cycles relate to sexual function and behavior. Findings from this study may help healthcare providers better recognize and address the sexual health concerns of women with infertility. This study is approved by the McGill University Health Centre Research Ethics Board (REB #2025-11459).

Key Dates

First listed
Jan 29, 2026
Start date
Feb 6, 2026
Status verified
Feb 2026
Primary completion
Jan 31, 2027
Completion
Jan 31, 2027

Study Design

Enrollment
500 participants (estimated)

Arms

  • Arm: Observational Infertility Cohort
    Women attending the MUHC Reproductive Centre for evaluation or treatment of infertility who complete a single anonymous questionnaire assessing sexual function and sexual behaviour.

Primary Outcome Measure

Female sexual function [ Time Frame: Day 1 ]

Central Contacts

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