Gender Perceptions Among Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization Treatment: The Role of Sociodemographic Factors

Background: Gender perception reflects how individuals interpret and internalize social norms and expectations related to femininity and masculinity. In societies where traditional gender roles remain influential, these perceptions may affect reproductive experiences and responses to infertility. However, data examining gender perception among women undergoing infertility treatment remain limited. This study aimed to examine gender perceptions among women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment and to investigate the association between gender perception and selected sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted at the In Vitro Fertilization and Reproductive Health Center of Atatürk University Hospital. Women aged 18-45 years undergoing ICSI treatment were included in the study using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a Demographic Information Form including variables of age, educational level, socio-economic status, upbringing culture, and the Perception of Gender Scale (PGS). Results: A total of 119 women participated in the study. Age and upbringing culture were not significantly associated with PGS scores. Educational level had a significant effect on gender perception, with participants who had a university education demonstrating more egalitarian gender perceptions compared with those with lower education levels. Socioeconomic status showed a significant overall association with PGS scores; however, post hoc comparisons did not reveal statistically significant differences between specific groups. Conclusion: Educational attainment appears to be an important factor influencing gender perception among women undergoing ICSI treatment. These findings suggest that gender-related attitudes may play a role in infertility experiences and highlight the importance of gender-sensitive approaches in reproductive health services.