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Research on infertility: which definition should we use?

Ulla Larsen1

  • 1Department of Population and International Health, Harvard School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA. ularsen@hsph.harvard.edu

Fertility and Sterility
|April 12, 2005
PubMed
Summary

The definition of infertility significantly impacts prevalence estimates. The World Health Organization

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Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Health
  • Epidemiology
  • Demography

Background:

  • Infertility definitions vary across clinical practice, epidemiological studies, and demographic research.
  • This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different infertility definitions on prevalence estimates and sociodemographic differentials.
  • The research also explored the applicability of a single definition for both research and clinical settings.

Discussion:

  • The choice of infertility definition influences the estimated prevalence and characteristics of affected populations.
  • Consistent definitions are crucial for accurate comparisons across studies and settings.
  • The study highlights the need for standardized approaches in defining and measuring infertility.

Key Insights:

  • Similar infertility prevalence and sociodemographic profiles were observed using direct questioning about time to pregnancy and analysis of birth history data.
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) definition, based on 24 months of attempting conception, emerged as a practical and versatile standard.
  • The study underscores that the definition of infertility is not neutral and significantly affects research outcomes.

Outlook:

  • Adoption of the WHO 24-month definition can enhance comparability in infertility research and clinical practice.
  • Further research could validate this definition across diverse cultural and healthcare contexts.
  • Standardized definitions will facilitate more effective public health interventions and resource allocation for infertility care.

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