Abstract

The recognition of the distressing character of infertility diagnosis and treatment has led to the development of many researches in medical psychology and mental health domain. This article aimed to investigate holistic stress from infertility by gender difference. This is a cross-sectional descriptive study on 369 infertile couples (175 male and 194 women) who referred to Yazd infertility center. These participants were selected by purposive sampling method. Data were collected by using demographic characteristics' questionnaire (researcher-made questionnaire), DASS test (depression-anxiety-stress), Courdon stress test( health stress-personality stress and life stress) and perceived stress test ( positive and negative perceived stress) . Mean score of depression, anxiety and stress in women was higher than men. Negative perceived stress, personality stress and life stress in women was higher than men, but positive stress conceived and health stress in men was higher than women. The results show that infertility has a significant impact on couples over time. Mental health professionals can educate couples regarding the effectiveness of coping strategies as well as stress management techniques while experiencing the stress of infertility.