Psychological Distress and Quality of Life Among Women Experiencing Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Background & Aims: Infertility is a major reproductive health problem that extends beyond impaired conception to include substantial emotional, relational, and social burdens. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize recent evidence on psychological distress and quality of life among women experiencing infertility. Methods: Studies published between 2020 and 2025 were identified through systematic searches of PubMed and Scopus databases. Thirty studies were included in the qualitative synthesis, and eight studies with extractable event data were included in the quantitative meta-analysis. A random-effects model was used to estimate pooled prevalence. Results: Multiple studies have consistently indicated that infertility is linked to increased levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and stigma, as well as diminished fertility-related quality of life. The pooled prevalence of depression among women experiencing infertility was 37.6% (95% CI 25.3–51.7%), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 98.6%). Conclusions: These findings highlight the substantial psychological burden associated with infertility and support the integration of routine psychosocial screening and counseling within infertility care pathways.