Abstract:
Abstract
Back ground: Fertility has a great social value and having children has a special meaning in
human life. Infertility, on the other extreme, imposes profound psychological and social impacts
on those with the problem. The financial burden is also immense. WHO has labeled infertility as
a disabling health problem. This study examines the experiences of women with infertility and
their treatment seeking practices.
Methods: This is a qualitative study with phenomenological study design. An in-depth interview
was conducted on 8 purposively selected women who were being seen at Saint Paul Hospital
Millennium Medical College, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, infertility clinic. The
interview was conducted by the investigator using a semi structured questionnaire guideline. The
interviews were taped, then transcribed and translated into English. Data were generated using
the translations and observations during interview. A bottom up approach was used to identify
themes and sub themes.
Results: Five themes and six sub themes were identified. Diverse negative emotional and
psychological effects were reported. Both supportive and destructive changes were seen with
relatives and friends. Treatments by in-laws and neighbors were largely negative. The women
were constantly visiting different health facilities because of lack of definitive management.
Religious activities were common.
Conclusions: Infertility deeply affects the life of infertile women with various emotional and
social effects. The health system and health care providers should consider addressing managing
the psychosocial aspects as well as providing advanced infertility treatment options. Further
studies in exploring the life experiences are important preferably at community levels.
