The Impact of Psychosexual Disorders on Depression and Self-Esteem Among Infertile Women

Purpose: Infertility can cause feelings of inadequacy and social isolation, which can lead to depressive mood states and lowered self-esteem among women. Such emotional problems are typically augmented by social pressures surrounding motherhood. This study investigates the relationships between psychosexual disorders, depression, and self-esteem among infertile women to improve psychological support interventions.Methods: A non-experimental correlational design was employed, with data collected from 290 married women aged 18 to 55 diagnosed with primary infertility in Kerman City between mid-2022 and mid-2023. Validated instruments, including the Sexual Functioning Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, were used for data collection. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and Smart PLS software.Results: The analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between psychosexual disorders and depression (path coefficient: 0.68, p<0.001), and a significant negative correlation with self-esteem (path coefficient: -0.55, p<0.001). Mean scores for self-esteem (3.21) and depression (3.41) indicated moderate levels of both constructs.Conclusions: These findings underscore the critical need for psychological interventions targeting psychosexual disorders in infertile women. Integrating such support into infertility treatment programs could significantly improve mental health outcomes and overall quality of life. Future research should explore longitudinal effects and culturally tailored interventions.