Astha Puri, a USA-based AI specialist, played a key role in the initiative by developing an AI-powered chatbot and contributing chapters to the guideline.
Indian Fertility Society (IFS)
Need for Holistic Support is the Need of the Hour
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Infertility impacts millions in India, posing emotional and psychological challenges alongside medical issues. While Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), particularly IVF, has advanced conception possibilities, psychosocial needs often remain overlooked. The Indian Fertility Society (IFS), led by Dr. K.D. Nayar and Dr. Poonam Nayar, has addressed this gap with the release of the “Consensus Guideline for Psychosocial Care in ART.”
Unveiled at the IFS Annual Meet, Fertivision 2024 (December 6–8, 2024), by Dr. Clare, President of ASPIRE, the guideline represents a collaboration among gynecologists, counselors, and psychologists worldwide. It outlines strategies to address the psychosocial challenges faced by ART patients. The guideline includes evidence-based psychosocial support strategies to help couples cope with stress, anxiety, and depression related to infertility. It also emphasizes the importance of structured counselor empowerment programs that provide specialized training in reproductive mental health. Additionally, it advocates for holistic care by integrating emotional, social, and relational well-being into ART practices.
Astha Puri, a USA-based AI specialist, played a key role in the initiative by developing an AI-powered chatbot and contributing chapters to the guideline. The chatbot offers personalized guidance tailored to address infertility-related emotional concerns. It ensures 24/7 accessibility, providing continuous support to patients and surpassing the limitations of traditional counseling. The platform is designed to be confidential, allowing users to share their feelings without fear of stigma. Backed by doctor-vetted content, the chatbot provides reliable assistance and serves as an educational resource, offering insights into ART options, lifestyle modifications, and coping mechanisms.
Astha said “Infertility journeys can be overwhelming, and mental health support should be accessible to all,” said Astha Puri. “Our AI-powered chatbot is designed to bridge gaps, ensuring patients feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout their experience.” She also spearheaded the development of a dedicated website to host vital resource materials, including counselor guidelines, patient education modules, and training materials. Astha further added “This digital hub is designed to empower counselors by providing continuous training and support in reproductive mental health. It serves as a comprehensive resource for patients, offering them valuable information to navigate their fertility journeys”. Furthermore, the platform fosters collaboration among global professionals committed to advancing psychosocial care in ART.
The release of the “Consensus Guideline for Psychosocial Care in ART” marks a milestone in infertility care under the leadership of the Indian Fertility Society. This initiative blends cutting-edge technology with holistic mental health support to address the emotional toll of infertility. By bridging accessibility gaps and empowering healthcare providers, it positions India as a global leader in comprehensive ART care. This guideline and its associated tools aim to redefine the patient experience, demonstrating the importance of empathy and mental health in achieving successful outcomes in reproductive care.
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