Infertility in africa

Abstract EN

Infertility constitutes an important public health problem in Africa since high prevalence rates exist in many African countries where it is not regarded only as an individual tragedy but also a social stigma that can lead to family disruption.

Demographic, epidemiological and clinical data have emphasized the high rates of both primary and secondary infertility in Africa.

The WHO standardized multicentre investigation of the infertile couple has established the preponderance of infection-related causes as the important etiological factors for infertility in Africa.

STD, post-partum and post-abortion infection are considered to be the main afflictions that are prevalent in the African health scene and lead to tubal blockage and infertility.

Since the management of infertility due to tubal blockage requires expensive and advanced technological skills, the emphasis should be directed to prevention of infertility due to infection.

Sexually Transmitted Disease control and educational programmes, together with improved obstetric delivery care and provision of FP services will go a long way to reduce the high rates of infertility in Africa.