Qualitative Interviews Exploring Infertility-Related Experiences: A Systematic Review of Literature

Infertility is a multidimensional and psychologically demanding condition, frequently managed through assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Although qualitative interviews offer valuable insight into lived experiences, the use of heterogeneous and ad hoc approaches has limited the integration of coherent knowledge. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review examined qualitative studies published between 2013 and 2024 employing interviews to explore psychosocial experiences of infertility and/or ART, with specific attention to interview characteristics, structure, and explored areas. A total of 286 studies were included. Interviews were predominantly semi-structured and addressed diverse themes, including treatment decision-making, patient–provider interactions, emotional responses, coping strategies, social and cultural dimensions, impacts on life domains, future expectations, and experiences of ART pregnancy/parenthood. Overall, substantial methodological heterogeneity emerged, with limited availability of shared interview guides.