The Impact of a Group Diet and Lifestyle Intervention on QOL in patients at an Urban Fertility Clinic in Canada

It has been suggested that individuals exploring assistive reproduction, including in vitro fertilization, have increased stress and burden that may in be addressed by adjunctive self-care behaviours. This study will test if a naturopathic doctor-led group-based diet and lifestyle intervention is helpful in couples or individuals seeking care for fertility issues. Participants attend a total of six 2 hour once-weekly group-based sessions.

Participant responsibilities:

Attend six 2-hour group-based education sessions at the Hannam Fertility Centre and complete questionnaires relating to quality of life, stress, and mood as well as provide confidential, anonymous feedback about their experiences with the program. Participants will meet with facilitators for a brief meeting before the start of the sessions, and after completion of the sessions.

Inclusion criteria:

Couples or individuals seeking fertility evaluation or treatment and seeing a doctor at the Hannam Fertility Centre
At least 21 years of age
Ability to answer questions in English or have at least one English speaking member who can attend all study visits

Location of study:

Hannam Fertility Centre (160 Bloor Street East, Toronto, ON)

Dates and times:

Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on the following days:
May 17, 24, 31
June 14, 21, 28

Duration

Participants will be followed for the duration of the program (six weeks).

Remuneration:

Participants will not receive any remuneration for participation. Participants may incur small costs for travel and parking at the Hannam Fertility Centre; the six-week program is offered free of charge to participants in the study.