Perception of Assisted Reproductive Technology Among Infertile Married Couples and Stress Faced due to Infertility in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Infertility, characterized by being unable to become pregnant after one year of sexual activity without protection (or six months for women over 35 due to age-related fertility decline), is a worldwide problem with serious psychological, social, marital, and individual consequences. By allowing couples to conceive biologically related children, assisted reproductive technologies, or ARTs, give them new hope. However, cultural differences exist in how ART and infertility are seen and dealt with. The purpose of this study is to investigate the psychological strain that infertile couples endure as well as the societal obstacles that prevent them from seeking ART. Methodology: A cross-sectional observational research was carried out between January 1 and March 31, 2025. Data were gathered from patients at Islamabad and Rawalpindi's infertility clinics and PIMS Hospital using a pre-validated self-administered questionnaire. 380 people were recruited through convenience sample technique. SPSS version 27.0 New York, United States, were used to analyze the data and find correlations. Chi-square tests and descriptive statistics were employed for deeper analysis Results: Among the 380 participants, women made up 69.5%. 35 to 45 years old made up the largest age group (49.5%), followed by 25 to 35 years old (39.5%). Level of education varied, with 46.8% finishing matriculation and 40.5% having graduate degrees. Infertility-related emotional suffering was extensively observed: 49.7% reported sleep difficulties, 44.7% expressed regular melancholy, and 43.7% experienced frequent exclusion from family gatherings. Furthermore, 41.1% reported having been the victim of physical or psychological abuse, and 47.4% felt inferior to others. In the 35–45 age range, stress was most common, with 50% reporting frequent exclusion and 47.9% reporting sleep disturbances. Stress was found to be significantly correlated with age (p = 0.0355). A substantial association was found between work status and stress markers, which were particularly common among housewives and those without employment. Conclusion: Stress related to infertility peaks in midlife, particularly for housewives and jobless people. These results emphasize the necessity of focused interventions and psychological support for impacted couples, particularly those pursuing ART and any infertility management treatment. Trial Registration Not Applicable