Abstract

This study aimed to formulate a conceptual model for the male infertility processes in relation to psychological factors, which can be examined by delving into the underlying core phenomena associated with psychological stress. To achieve this objective, we employed a dual sampling approach, utilizing both snowball sampling and purposive sampling, to gather a cohort of men who had experienced infertility for more than two years. In-depth interviews were subsequently conducted with a diverse group of eight participants ranging in age from 20 years to 50 years. Qualitative data from these in-depth interviews were meticulously transcribed and subjected to analysis employing the grounded theory methodology. Through an open coding process, a total of 120 concepts, 26 subcategories, and 11 overarching categories emerged. Additionally, utilizing axial coding, we identified 'Experience and perception of infertility' as a causal condition, 'Infertility trauma' and 'Cognitive misconceptions about pregnancy and childbirth' as contextual conditions, and 'Psychological distress' as the phenomenon under scrutiny. Furthermore, the intervention conditions were found to be 'Changes in the support system' and 'Changes in the perception of wives,' along with 'Self-reflection' and 'Acquisition of knowledge about pregnancy and childbirth' as the interactive factors. The resultant outcome encompassed 'Efforts to address infertility' and 'Alterations in marital relationships.' Through the selective coding process, we uncovered the core category of 'Cognitive and emotional transformation.' Building upon this, we classified various male infertility experiences into the following four distinct types: 'Communication type', 'Conflict type', 'Wait and see type' and 'Self-reflection type'. Based on these findings, we engaged in a comprehensive discussion regarding the significance and limitations of this study, and offered suggestions for prospective research endeavors.