Assessing Digital and Community Based Support Systems for Emotional Health in Infertility

Infertility is a globally prevalent condition that often leads to significant psychological distress, including elevated levels of stress and anxiety. Support groups have emerged as valuable interventions, yet comparative evidence on the effectiveness of community-based versus online formats remains limited. This study aims to evaluate and contrast the efficacy of in-person and virtual support groups in alleviating stress among individuals facing infertility. Employing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data were gathered using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) in a pre-post design, while qualitative insights were obtained through semi-structured interviews. A total of 122 participants, evenly distributed across both group types, engaged in six-week support interventions. Quantitative findings revealed significant stress and anxiety reductions in both groups, with the community-based format yielding slightly greater improvements. Qualitative analyses further highlighted distinct benefits, in-person groups fostered emotional connection and a shared sense of understanding, whereas online groups offered convenience and anonymity. These results suggest that both support models are effective, though their impact may vary depending on individual preferences and contextual factors. The study contributes to filling a gap in the literature by providing empirical evidence on support group modalities specific to infertility. Future research should explore long-term psychological outcomes and personalization strategies to optimize support delivery. These findings have practical implications for healthcare providers and mental health professionals aiming to design inclusive, flexible, and effective support systems for individuals navigating the emotional burden of infertility.