Document Type : Research articles

Authors

1 MSc of Counselling in Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran

2 PhD in Reproductive Health, Assistant Professor, Department of Midwifery, Reproductive Health Promotion Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran

3 Ph.D in Psychology, Assistant Professor, Educational Psychology Department, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran

4 Ph.D in Statistic, Associate Professor, Statistic Department, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran

Abstract

Background: Studies show that infertility can result in body image changes, which can majorly affect personality.
Objectives: The current study aimed to determine the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on body image in infertile women.
Methods: This clinical trial was performed on 24 infertile women, admitted to the Infertility Research and Treatment Center of Ahvaz, Iran in 2016-2017. In the first stage, convenience sampling was applied, and the participants were allocated to 2 groups (12 patients per group), using a table of random numbers. The experimental group participated in 10 sessions of CBT weekly, based on the 8-step program by Cash. body-self relations questionnaire and Beck Self-Concept inventory were completed in each group before, immediately after, and 1 month after the intervention.
Results: After the intervention, the mean scores of body image were 156.9 ± 3.4 and 148.7 ± 4.8 in the experimental and control groups, respectively; the difference was significant (P = 0.025), and the effects persisted until the follow-up.
Conclusions: CBT based on the 8-step program by Cash can improve the body image of infertile women through challenging and improving their irrational beliefs about their bodies. 

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