Factors associated with infertility in women less than 25 years
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64294/jsd.v3i4.184Abstract
Background: Infertility among women at peak reproductive potential, is a growing concern in resource-limited settings. Preventable causes like untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), unsafe abortions, and postpartum infections are common. This study examined factors associated with infertility in young women in Yaoundé.
Methodology: We conducted a retrospective case–control study of 150 women aged 21–25 years from two referral hospitals between 1st January and 31st December 2021. Cases: women consulting for infertility (n = 75) and controls: postpartum women matched by age (n = 75). Data were analyzed using Chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests and multivariate logistic regression. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated; significance was p < 0.05.
Results: Primary infertility accounted for 81.3% of cases. Leading causes included genital tract infections (47.5%), tubal obstruction/adhesions (22.0%), and polycystic ovary syndrome (11.9%). Independent predictors of infertility were being in union (AOR 8.08, 95% CI 2.34–27.94), unemployment (AOR 67.21, 95% CI 3.76–1201.49), precocious menarche (AOR 9.30, 95% CI 1.03–83.86), history of STI (AOR 8.52, 95% CI 1.56–46.58), obesity (AOR 64.85, 95% CI 4.41–953.59), and alcohol use (AOR 45.41, 95% CI 8.79–234.76). Secondary education was protective (AOR 0.14, 95% CI 0.03–1.06). Financial barriers prevented diagnostic evaluation in 21.3% of cases.
Conclusion: Infertility is strongly linked to preventable and modifiable factors. Interventions focused on STI prevention, lifestyle modification, reproductive health education, and reducing financial barriers are essential to mitigate this burden.
