How infertility and fertility treatments affect women's sexual function and behavior
Effect of Infertility and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) on Sexual Function and Behaviour
This project tries to see if infertility and fertility treatments like IVF change sexual desire, satisfaction, or sexual activity in women under 45 seeking fertility care.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 500 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 44 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Montreal, Quebec) |
| Trial ID | NCT07376109 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This single-center, cross-sectional observational project at the McGill University Health Centre uses an anonymous paper questionnaire to measure sexual function and behaviors in women attending the fertility clinic. Participants complete the validated Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) plus additional questions about sexual frequency and behavior while waiting for their appointment. About 500 eligible respondents will be recruited in person, with completed anonymous surveys entered into a secure database and analyzed for associations with infertility duration, type, and treatment history. No identifying information is collected and survey responses are not linked to medical records.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Women assigned female at birth, aged 18–44, diagnosed with infertility and attending the MUHC Reproductive Centre are the ideal participants.
Not a fit: People unlikely to benefit include those who are not infertile (including those seeking oocyte cryopreservation), individuals assigned male at birth, women 45 or older, or couples not attempting conception without assisted reproduction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could help clinicians identify sexual health needs and tailor counseling or support for women undergoing fertility treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous observational studies have reported links between infertility and reduced sexual function, so this work builds on existing evidence rather than testing a novel treatment.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Assigned female at birth. 2. Self-identify as a woman. 3. Age 18-44 years. 4. Diagnosis of infertility. 5. Seeking fertility treatment at the MUHC Reproductive Centre. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Assigned male at birth. 2. Age 45 years or older. 3. Sexual practices that do not allow for the possibility of conception (e.g., same-sex relationships without use of assisted reproductive technologies). 4. Seeking oocyte cryopreservation. 5. Individuals who do not wish to complete the anonymous questionnaire.
Where this trial is running
Montreal, Quebec
- MUHC Reproductive Centre — Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Rebecca L Eckler, MD
- Email: rebecca.eckler@mail.mcgill.ca
- Phone: (514) 843-1650
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.