For many women, undergoing IVF (in vitro fertilization) can be an emotionally challenging journey. A recent study published in May 2025 in the journal Scientific Reports (a Nature publication) sheds light on just how common anxiety and depression are among women going through IVF – and what factors may influence these emotional states.
Researchers followed 2,465 women undergoing IVF at a large hospital in China. They found that:
27.18% of women experienced symptoms of depression
18.46% experienced symptoms of anxiety
These numbers suggest that more than 1 in 4 IVF patients may struggle emotionally during the process — highlighting the importance of psychological care and support.
What Factors Make a Difference?
Study also explored which factors may influence mental health in IVF patients. Here are some of the key findings:
Factors Associated with Lower Risk of Depression:
Higher education (especially a bachelor’s degree)
Male factor infertility (vs. female factor)
Earlier psychological assessment, at the beginning of ovarian stimulation
Factors Associated with Higher Risk of Depression:
Other existing medical conditions
Longer or more complex IVF treatment plans (called “extended ART strategies”)
The same extended treatment strategies also increased the risk of anxiety. Again, higher education seemed to offer some emotional protection.
What Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Say?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the emotional well-being of a woman is deeply connected to the Liver, Heart, and Spleen systems. According to TCM theory:
Liver Qi stagnation is often the root of emotional tension, anxiety, and irritability — especially in women undergoing fertility treatment.
Spleen Qi deficiency may contribute to overthinking, fatigue, and worry.
Heart Shen disturbance can manifest as insomnia, palpitations, or emotional instability.
When a woman goes through IVF, not only is the body undergoing hormonal stimulation, but the mind and emotions are also placed under great strain. TCM views this as an imbalance between Qi (vital energy), Blood, and emotions, which can affect fertility outcomes.
TCM Support for IVF-Related Anxiety and Depression
At our clinic, we use individualised treatment plans combining acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and lifestyle advice to support women during IVF.
Here’s how TCM can help:
Acupuncture calms the nervous system, regulates the stress response, and supports blood flow to the uterus and ovaries.
Herbal medicine nourishes the Heart and Liver, harmonises hormones, and strengthens overall vitality.
Lifestyle guidance may include:
Gentle movement like Tai Chi or yoga
Warm, nourishing meals to strengthen digestion and Qi
Emotional journaling or breathing techniques to ease tension
Importantly, TCM doesn’t just treat symptoms — it aims to restore whole-body balance, offering both emotional and physical support during the fertility journey.
This latest research highlights how mental health is a crucial part of fertility care. IVF patients may experience high levels of emotional stress, which deserve just as much attention as physical health. By combining modern medical insight with the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine, we can help women feel more supported, balanced, and calm throughout the IVF process.
If you’re currently preparing for IVF or already on the journey, please feel free to contact us via 0452 166 965
Reference:
Li, N., Bai, J., Wang, L. et al. Factors influencing the anxiety and depression status in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer assisted pregnancy. Sci Rep 15, 16303 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-94247-z
