FACTORS INFLUENCING SECONDARY INFERTILITY AMONG WOMEN IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS IN THE NORTHERN REGION OF GHANA

Abstract

Secondary infertility is a serious public health problem and affects the wellbeing of women. The phenomenon of secondary infertility has gained both local and international attention especially in the developing world where women aspiration is usually that, they get an offspring who would replace them when they are no more alive. The study examines the factors that influence secondary infertility among women between the reproductive ages of 15 to 49 years in the Tamale metropolis. Using cross-sectional and descriptive designs, a concurrent mixed method approach, involving both the quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were used. The sample size was 400 respondents who were selected using quota and simple random sampling techniques. In addition, seven key informants (5 medical experts and 2 TBAs) were purposively selected for in-depth interview. Analysis of data involved the application of descriptive statistics. The study found that the factors that influences secondary infertility among respondents as stress or sickness, irregular menses, use of contraceptives, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), late marriage, abortion, inadequate intimacy, food chemicals, and inadequate diets. Some respondents were limited with information on factors influencing secondary infertility. Secondary infertility among women in the Tamale metropolis is a serious public health problem that needs recognition and attention. Awareness creation on prevention and management of secondary infertility should be brought to the doors steps of women whiles the factors influencing this problem be sensitised adequately in the Metropolis.