Efficacy of a Single-Session Intervention for Women Following Unsuccessful in Vitro Fertilization Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Infertility treatment failure can be unavoidable and often leads to significant psychosocial distress for women. Patients may face ongoing decision-making challenges when considering whether to continue or terminate treatment. Integrating psychological services provided by medical social workers into routine care is an emerging global trend. This randomized controlled trial was conducted to examined the efficacy of a single-session, medical social worker-led meaning-based implications counseling approach in reducing decisional conflict and improving the mental health of women experiencing unsuccessful in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Eighty women who had experienced at least one failed IVF cycle were randomly assigned to either an intervention or a waitlist control group. The between-group effect analysis showed a significant time x group interaction in informed decision-making scores (F = 5.18, p < 0.05, η 2 = 0.06) and meaning-making (F = 11.28, p < 0.001, η 2 = 0.13). Additionally, marginally significant reductions in anxiety symptoms were observed (F = 3.19, p = 0.08). The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the intervention in improving decisional clarity, enhancing meaning-making, and reducing anxiety in women who have experienced treatment failure(s). This study provides evidence supporting the efficacy of a structured, non-pharmacological intervention that is easy for social workers to implement in routine fertility care, particularly for IVF patients experiencing failed cycles who face emotional disturbances and decision-making barriers. The single-session format may be especially beneficial in resource-limited areas by reducing both workload and withdrawal rates.