The FAST study: Fertility ASsessment and advice Targeting lifestyle choices and behaviours: a pilot study

Gillian Homan, John Litt, Robert Norman

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    53 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Background: Lifestyle has been shown to affect fertility in both males and females, with compelling evidence that smoking and being under or overweight impairs natural and assisted fertility, and other factors such as stress and caffeine have also been implicated. The objective of this study was to determine whether providing infertile couples with individualized lifestyle assessments and ongoing support facilitates positive lifestyle changes enhancing healthy fertility. methods: We conducted a prospective cohort pilot study of 23 infertile couples attending an Adelaide-based fertility clinic for advice and treatment relating to infertility. The intervention was a comprehensive assessment interview with the couple, focused on health and lifestyle. Motivational interviewing techniques were used and ongoing support provided. The assessment was repeated after 4 months and included an exit questionnaire. The main outcome measure(s) was self-reported lifestyle changes, including increased exercise, modified diet, reduced caffeine and alcohol consumption, ceased or reduced smoking and decreased psychological stress. results: Following the initial lifestyle assessment interview, all participants reported adverse lifestyle behaviour. conclusions: The results suggest that the FAST (Fertility ASsessment and advice Targeting lifestyle choices and behaviours) approach of an individualized assessment of current lifestyle practice followed by ongoing one to two weekly telephone support is effective in promoting healthy lifestyle change. Larger studies using this methodology are now required.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)2396-2404
    Number of pages9
    JournalHuman Reproduction
    Volume27
    Issue number8
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Aug 2012

    Keywords

    • Assessment
    • Couple
    • Fertility
    • Lifestyle
    • Motivational interviewing

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'The FAST study: Fertility ASsessment and advice Targeting lifestyle choices and behaviours: a pilot study'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this