The dyadic interaction model of relationship quality and the impact of attachment orientation and empathy on infertile couples in China.

The study measured couples at one time, so it cannot show that empathy, attachment or communication cause better relationship quality. It was done in one hospital centre in China, and did not include couples who did not attend that centre, so it may not apply elsewhere. All information came from self-report questionnaires collected at one time. Duration of infertility showed differences in simple tests but was not significant in the regression, so its role is unclear. The sample mixed causes of infertility and had a lower proportion of male-factor infertility, which may limit conclusions about men's attachment orientation. Social support from parents and other traditional family sources was not measured.

The authors declared no conflict of interest. No funding statement is given in the supplied text.

Do not read these associations as proof that empathy training or open disclosure will improve relationships or pregnancy. The study measured couples at one time and did not test an intervention, so it cannot show that changing empathy or attachment causes better relationship quality.