Infertility affects 1 out of 8 couples, however we know that both men and women with rheumatic diseases are more affected than the general public. This may be due to their diagnosis or medication side effects or other unknown issues. While we know infertility is unfortunately common, what isn’t known is how do patients think their condition or medications may affect their ability to have a child. We also don’t know the awareness of the treatments for infertility in those with rheumatic diseases or the barriers to accessing this treatment.
This research will show us the patient experience of someone with a rheumatic or autoimmune condition and their perceptions regarding childbearing and fertility. With this information, we will be able to create educational tools for patients and their medical team so these issues may be addressed.
If you are 18 or older with a rheumatic or autoimmune disease, you are invited to fill out a 15-minute online survey.
For more information, you may contact the principal investigator: Dr. Cuoghi Edens at cedens@peds.bsd.uchicago.edu
