EPIDEMIOLOGY OF INFERTILITY - REVIEW WITH PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Google Scholar
  • 1 January 1976
    • journal article
    • review article
    • Vol. 54  (3) , 319-341
Abstract
The problem of infertility, with particular reference to Africa south of the Sahara, is reviewed. In many areas, up to 40% of women may complete their reproductive years without bearing a child. The condition is widely distributed, but often localized in pockets corresponding to geographical or tribal units. Most available demographic data provide estimates of childlessness but it is not sufficient to define the problem in terms of primary and secondary infertility, pregnancy wastage and infant and child mortality. The major underlying cause for the high levels of infertility appears to be the sequelae of Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection in men and women, manifested as obstructive azoospermia and tubal occlusion. Other infections, such as those that may follow abortion or delivery, or systemic infections, may be important in some areas. Different patterns of infertility and pregnancy wastage, and different etiological agents and processes, may contribute to the problem of infertility in the different areas. The need for a systematic, standardized research approach in several areas is clearly indicated.