Cyberchondria and Stress in Women Undergoing Infertility Treatment

Virtual Knowledge, Real Stress: The Role of Cyberchondria Severity in Women Undergoing Infertility Treatment

This study examines how searching for health information on the internet may affect stress and emotional well-being in women undergoing infertility treatment. Infertility is a common condition that impacts about 48 million couples worldwide and can cause not only physical challenges but also significant emotional strain, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Many women turn to the internet to seek answers about their condition and treatment. While online information can be helpful, it is not always accurate or consistent, which can increase worry and confusion. This repeated and sometimes excessive searching for health information, known as "cyberchondria," has been linked in previous research to increased stress and anxiety. This study will assess women's online information-seeking patterns, infertility-related stress, and overall emotional and social well-being, aiming to better understand the role of cyberchondria in the infertility treatment process. The results may help healthcare professionals offer more targeted support and guidance to women facing these challenges.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women undergoing infertility treatment and those who have experienced various treatment methods (IUI, IVF, ICSI).
• Women willing to participate in the study.
• Women who understand and speak Turkish.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Women with psychological disorders (e.g., clinical depression, anxiety disorders).
• Women not undergoing infertility treatment.