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Infertility in rural Ghana.
D W Geelhoed1, D Nayembil, K Asare
1Holy Family Hospital, Berekum, Ghana.
Summary
Infertility affects 11.8% of women and 15.8% of men in Ghana, with limited public knowledge of its causes. Public education and integration into reproductive health programs are crucial for addressing this public health issue.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Reproductive Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Infertility is a significant reproductive health concern globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Understanding the prevalence and public knowledge of infertility causes is essential for effective intervention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of self-reported infertility among men and women in Ghana.
- To assess the level of knowledge regarding the causes of infertility within the surveyed population.
Main Methods:
- A community-based survey was conducted in a rural Ghanaian district.
- A structured questionnaire was administered to a random sample of 2,179 men and women aged 15 to 49 years.
- Data collected included self-reported infertility status and knowledge of infertility causes.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of infertility was 11.8% in women and 15.8% in men.
- Knowledge of infertility causes was limited, with only 46.5% of respondents identifying any cause.
- Reproductive tract infections were frequently unidentified as a cause of infertility by respondents.
Conclusions:
- Infertility represents a substantial public health problem in Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa, requiring greater attention.
- Prevention and treatment of infertility should be integrated into existing reproductive health programs.
- Public education on infertility causes and increased male participation in reproductive health initiatives are recommended.