The Effect of Stress on DNA Integrity and the Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Stress and Infertility in Women

The Effect of Stress on DNA Integrity and the Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Stress and Infertility in Women Undergoing IVF Treatment.

The general hypothesis of the research is that stress decreases fertility and that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy will reduce stress and increase fertility. Secondarily, we hypothesize that stress has a detrimental effect on DNA integrity and that stress reduction will reduce DNA damage in the cell.

Inclusion Criteria:

• women between the ages of 18-35 without children undergoing IVF treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

• undergoing treatment for a DSM-IV axis I psychiatric illness.