Between Privacy and Empathy: Unveiling Self-Disclosure Patterns in Online IVF Support Groups

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a common and effective treatment for infertility, requiring patients to access diverse information for informed decision-making. While healthcare professionals provide specialized reproductive advice, many patients seek additional emotional support and shared experiences from peers through online support forums. This study examines how patients undergoing IVF engage in self-disclosure within these forums, focusing on the topics, purposes, and effects of sharing personal information. Through content analysis of 600 posts and 1800 responses, the study reveals that patients frequently disclose information such as age, location, and medication history. The primary motivations for sharing include emotional venting and self-clarification. Patients mainly seek empathy and clarification, especially during critical IVF stages, such as starting treatment or confirming pregnancy. Findings suggest that timely emotional support from healthcare professionals, alongside clinical advice, could enhance patient well-being. Additionally, fostering open information-sharing within patient support groups can offer significant emotional benefits. Platform designers are encouraged to develop user-friendly, privacy-conscious environments that balance information sharing with security. This research highlights the importance of emotional disclosure in IVF communities and suggests ways to improve support structures for patients navigating infertility treatments.