Knowledge and perceptions of infertility among adults in Anekal Taluk Hospital, Karnataka

Abstract

Background: Fertility is the ability to produce a child. Most couples value parenthood and look forward to it. Infertility is a global phenomenon and is considered a public problem; it does not only affect the couples' lives but also affects their social environment and the healthcare servicesObjectives: To assess the knowledge and perceptions of fertility among the adults aged 18-49 years visiting Anekal Taluk general hospital.Methodology: A hospital based cross-sectional study was done in Anekal Taluk General Hospital. A consecutive sampling technique was used. Participants aged 18-49 years who were aware of the word infertility were included in the study. A total of 218 participants fulfilled the criteria and were included in the study. To assess the knowledge, a nine-item fertility awareness questionnaire was administered by an interviewer. Assessment of the perceptions of fertility was done using a structured, face-validated 15 item questionnaire. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.Results: There were 300 participants in the study. The mean age was 31.2±9.1. A total of 218 (72.7%) study participants were aware of infertility. A total of 171 (78.4%) had adequate knowledge of fertility. Most participants had positive perceptions about infertility. Gender, marital status, and socio-economic status were significantly associated with awareness on fertility.Conclusion: Awareness on fertility is increasing among general population however negative attitude towards infertility and stigma towards infertile females is still present in the communities.