Abstract: (9143 Views)
Background and purpose: Today, infertility has become a social concern and is associated
with numerous problems and social support as a protective factor can have a significant impact on health
and social functioning.The present study has been carried out with the aim of determining perceived
social support status and its individual- social predictors in infertile couples referring to infertility center
of Alzahra Hospital, 2012-2013.
Material and Methods: This cross- sectional study has been carried out on 345 infertile
couples. The purposive sampling was carried out in this study. The data were collected using socialindividual
and perceived social support questionnaire (MSPSS). Multiple linear regression analysis was
used to determine relationship between perceived social support and individual- social criteria.
Results: The mean (standard deviation) of total score of perceived social support in infertile men
and women, were respectively, 42.28 (8.24) and 39.48 (9.19) from the range of acceptable score between
12- 60. The mean score (standard deviation) of social support from family sources was the highest one.
Sufficient income for living expenses variable ininfertile women and education and sufficient income for
living expenses variables in infertile men were the predictors of perceived social support.
Conclusion: In the present study, women had higher perceived social support compared with
men and they perceived more support from their families. So, intimate relationships with respect in
promoting a sense of social support in infertile couples is recommended.