Background of the study
Childbearing and raising of children are extremely important events in every human’s life and are strongly associated with the ultimate goals of completeness, happiness and family integration. It is widely accepted that human existence reaches completeness through a child and fulfils the individual’s need for reproduction. Human fertility, compared with other species of animal kingdom, is unfortunately low [Parker, 2000]. According to recent studies by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 8-10% of couples are facing some kind of infertility problem. Globally, this means that 50-80 million people are facing the problem of getting an integrated family. In the USA, approximately 5 million people have infertility problems, while in Europe the incidence is estimated around 14% [Parker, 2000]. The incidence of infertility is associated with geographic differences. For example, in some west-African communities infertility rate is around 50%, while in some western European countries is 12%. Likewise, differences are observed both in developed countries, where rates range from 3.5% to 16.7%, as well as in less developed countries, where rates of infertility range from 6.9% to 9.3%. It has also been observed that the causes are related to geographical differences. Especially in Western countries, the most common risk factor of infertility is age, while in Africa is sexually transmitted diseases [Lindsay & Vitrikas,, 2015].
The desire to have children is strong in a patriarchal society like ours, but for a sizeable minority, it is not easily fulfilled. Infertility is a major reproductive health scourge in Africa. The awareness of infertility risk factors among infertile women, is an essential step to safeguard fertility and its identification will enable modifiable factors to be addressed (Fido, 2004). Declining fertility and increased infertility has led researchers worldwide to assess fertility awareness. Between 8 and 12% of couples around the world have difficulty conceiving at some points in their lives. Primary infertility is more common in the developed country. while secondary infertility rate is high in Sub-Saharan Africa . Primary infertility is a serious reproductive healthcare concern among many Nigerian women with associated psychological impact. Mokhar et al, in their work on risk factors of infertility, in Alexandria Egypt reported a prevalence of
80% and 20%, for primary and secondary infertility respectively(Fido, 2004). A study in Guinea by Leno and fellow researchers reported a prevalence of 17.8%, with primary infertility 5.4.%, while secondary infertility 12.4%. Panti and colleagues in their research on the profile of infertility in a teaching hospital in North West Nigeria found a prevalence rates of 15.7%, with primary and secondary infertility 32.8% and 67.2% respectively, Oguejiofor et al reported 26.8% and 55.% for primary and secondary infertility respectively, while Obuna and others , reported 65% prevalence of secondary infertility(Olooto, Amballi & Banjo, 2012).
This similar to findings by in Delta state, Nigeria by Odunvbun and other workers,10who found an incidence of 32%, of which 58.9%, had secondary infertility. Various risk factors have been identified in patients presenting with infertility. These
range from age, obesity, lifestyle, environment, sexually transmitted infection, family history, and exposure to radiation, chemotherapy, unsafe abortion, home delivery, previous surgery, infectious disease such as tuberculosis and HIV. The amount and quality of information available to a patient is a crucial factor, in the evaluation and success of their managements(Olooto, Amballi & Banjo, 2012. Poor fertility awareness may be a contributing factor to infertility, however studies have shown there is poor awareness regarding the causes of infertility among the general population. Therefore, the researcher sought to investigate the Knowlevdge of factors influencing infertility among women of reproductive age
Statement of the problem
Infertility is a multifaceted issue that affects a significant portion of women worldwide, impacting their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Despite its prevalence, there exists a notable gap in understanding the various factors that contribute to infertility among women of reproductive age. This research aims to investigate the depth of knowledge regarding these factors among women in this demographic group (Olooto, Amballi & Banjo, 2012). Infertility poses a significant challenge to women of reproductive age worldwide, impacting their physical, psychological, and social well-being. Despite advancements in medical science, many women continue to face infertility issues, pointing towards a potential gap in understanding the various factors contributing to this phenomenon(Olooto, Amballi & Banjo, 2012. However, there exists a gap in comprehensive understanding regarding the multitude of factors that contribute to infertility among women of reproductive age. While medical factors such as hormonal imbalances and reproductive disorders are often discussed, socio-cultural, environmental, and lifestyle factors may also play crucial roles, yet remain underexplored.Therefore, this research aims to investigate the knowledge of factors influencing infertility among women of reproductive age.
1.3 Objective of the study
Generally, the study investigates the knowledge of factors influencing infertility among women of reproductive age. The specific objectives is as follows
To explore the level of knowledge regarding biological factors affecting fertility among women in different age groups.
To identify the factors that contribute to infertility among women of reproductive age.
To assess the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving knowledge about infertility and reproductive health among women of reproductive age.
1.4 Research Questions
The following questions have been prepared to guide the study
What is the level of knowledge regarding biological factors affecting fertility among women in different age groups?
What are the factors that contribute to infertility among women of reproductive age?
What is the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving knowledge about infertility among women of reproductive age?
1.5 Research hypotheses
The hypotheses have been formulated for the study
H0: Women of reproductive age are not knowledgeable of factors influencing infertility .
Ha: Women of reproductive age are knowledgeable of factors influencing infertility .
1.6 Significance of the study
The findings of the study will be significant to the following:
Ministry of Health: Understanding women's knowledge regarding infertility factors helps healthcare providers tailor education and counseling to address misconceptions and promote proactive health behaviors. By identifying gaps in knowledge, healthcare professionals can develop targeted interventions to enhance reproductive health literacy, potentially leading to earlier detection and intervention for infertility issues.
Fertility clinics: By elucidating factors influencing infertility awareness, this study can contribute to improved reproductive health outcomes. Greater knowledge empowers women to make informed decisions regarding family planning, fertility preservation, and seeking appropriate medical assistance. Consequently, it can lead to reduced delays in seeking fertility treatments and improved chances of successful conception.
Academia: the study will be of benefit to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature.
1.7 Scope of the study
The study focuses on the knowledge of factors influencing infertility among women of reproductive age. Hence, the study will explore the level of knowledge regarding biological factors affecting fertility among women in different age groups, identify the factors that contribute to infertility among women of reproductive age and assess the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving knowledge about infertility and reproductive health among women of reproductive age. The study is delimited to Grabbo fertility clinic, Abuja.
1.8 Limitation of the study
Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:
Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.
Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.
Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.
1.9 Definition of terms
Infertility: The medical condition characterized by the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after a period of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse.
Women of Reproductive Age: Refers to females typically between the ages of 15 and 49 years old, encompassing the age range during which women are biologically capable of conceiving and bearing children.
Knowledge: The awareness, understanding, or familiarity with information, facts, or concepts related to a specific subject matter. In this research, knowledge refers to the comprehension and awareness that women of reproductive age possess regarding factors associated with infertility.
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