Association between self-efficacy and quality of life in infertile couples and mediation of marital adjustment: an actor-partner interdependence mediation model

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the mediating role of marital adjustment between self-efficacy and quality of life in couples undergoing IVF treatment. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 293 infertile Chinese couples completed the General Self-Efficacy Scale, Marital Adjustment Test, and Fertility Quality of Life Scale. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling based on the actor-partner interdependence mediation model. RESULTS: Both wives and husbands showed positive actor effects - their self-efficacy improved quality of life through their own marital adjustment. For partner effects, husbands' self-efficacy enhanced wives' marital adjustment, while husbands' marital adjustment unexpectedly reduced wives' quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: Improving self-efficacy and marital adjustment can enhance quality of life for IVF couples. Healthcare providers should approach couples as an integrated unit and develop dyadic interventions to improve both partners' quality of life.