This cross-sectional observational study examines how infertility and the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) are related to sexual function and sexual behaviors in women seeking fertility treatment. Infertility and the stress of ART may be associated with changes in sexual desire, satisfaction, and activity. The purpose is to better understand these associations to support the sexual health and overall well-being of women undergoing fertility care.
Women who are assigned female at birth, under 45 years old, diagnosed with infertility, and attending appointments at the MUHC Reproductive Centre are invited to take part. Participants will be asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire while waiting for their clinical visit. The questionnaire includes the validated Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), which measures different aspects of sexual function, and additional questions about sexual activities, such as frequency of intercourse and other behaviors before and after fertility treatments.
Participants will not provide any identifying information. Completed questionnaires will be placed in a secure collection box to protect confidentiality.
Data from approximately 500 participants will be analyzed to explore how infertility type (primary vs. secondary), duration of infertility, and the number of unsuccessful ART cycles relate to sexual function and behavior. Findings from this study may help healthcare providers better recognize and address the sexual health concerns of women with infertility.
This study is approved by the McGill University Health Centre Research Ethics Board (REB #2025-11459).
Assigned female at birth.
Self-identify as a woman.
Age 18-44 years.
Diagnosis of infertility.
Assigned male at birth.
Age 45 years or older.
Sexual practices that do not allow for the possibility of conception (e.g., same-sex relationships without use of assisted reproductive technologies).
Seeking oocyte cryopreservation.
This study will include women assigned female at birth, aged 18-44 years, who are seeking fertility treatment at the MUHC Reproductive Centre and have a diagnosis of infertility. Participants must self-identify as women. Individuals assigned male at birth, age 45 or older, seeking oocyte cryopreservation, or whose sexual practices do not allow for conception without assisted reproductive technologies will be excluded. Participation is voluntary and anonymous.
Other
Cross-sectional
Not listed
Female sexual function
Female sexual function as assessed using the validated Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), which evaluates desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. Higher scores indicate better sexual function.
Sexual Behaviour
Self-reported sexual behaviors, including intercourse frequency (pre- and post-fertility treatment), oral sex, anal sex, masturbation, and other sexual practices, as assessed by the anonymous questionnaire.
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