The Use of Virtual Reality Technology During Oocyte Retrieval for in Vitro Fertilization

Summary

Ultrasound-guided oocyte retrieval (OR) is a short, but oftentimes painful procedure, during which the follicles are punctured trans-vaginally to obtain oocytes for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Conscious sedation is the most commonly used method of pain relief, yet several studies have shown that more than half of women report moderate to high levels of pain and up to 7% of women report extreme or unacceptable levels of pain during OR. Adjuvant virtual reality (VR) therapy has been explored to reduce psychological stress during dental procedures, burn wound care, colonoscopy, as well as other minor procedures. Hence, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the use of VR technology during IVF treatment, particularly with respect to tolerability, patient satisfaction, and pain reduction during oocyte retrieval.

Conditions

• Oocyte Retrieval
• Adverse Events
• Procedural Anxiety
• Pain Intensity
• Satisfaction
• Medication Administration

Interventions

DEVICE

VR-based intervention (VRReliever Software V0.3.4 fromXRHealth)

The participant will be able to select between four VR environments: beach, lake, forest, or mountain scenery. Each provides an immersive audio and visual environment designed to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Each scene is rendered in a high-resolution and life-like fashion which participants can experience in a full 360 degrees. Participants will wear the headset for the duration of the egg retrieval procedure which is approximately 15-20 minutes.

DEVICE

VR headset without any scenery

VR headset without any scenery

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility

  collaborator UNKNOWN

• Mount Sinai Hospital, Canada

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Claire Jones, MD · MOUNT SINAI HOSPITAL

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

SUPPORTIVE_CARE

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

43 Years

Sex

FEMALE

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-01-15

Primary Completion

2025-07-15

Completion

2025-12-31