Infertility in rural Ghana.

OBJECTIVES

This study measured the prevalence of self-reported infertility, as well as the level of knowledge of causes of infertility. Infertility was defined as failure to achieve conception after a minimum of 12 months of exposure.

METHODS

Prevalence and knowledge of infertility were assessed in a representative community-based survey using a structured questionnaire in a rural district in Ghana among a random sample of 2,179 men and women from 15 to 49 years.

RESULTS

The prevalence of infertility was 11.8% among women and 15.8% among men. The knowledge of causes of infertility was limited; only 46.5% of the respondents reported any cause. Most respondents failed to identify reproductive tract infections as causes of infertility.

CONCLUSIONS

Infertility in Ghana and other sub-Saharan countries deserves more recognition as a public health problem. Prevention and treatment of infertility should be incorporated in reproductive health programs, while male participation in reproductive health programs and research needs to be encouraged. Public education about the causes of infertility is recommended.