Spermiological and therapeutic profile of infertile men in two referral hospitals in Douala (Cameroon)

Abstract

Introduction: Male infertility (MI) is a public health problem in Africa. The aim of this study was to present the sperm characteristics and treatment outcomes of infertile men who consulted at two referral hospitals in Douala.

Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive study of infertile patients who consulted at Laquintinie Hospital in Douala and Notre Dame de l'Amour Catholic Hospital in Douala from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2024 (6 years).

Results: The average age was 37 ± 7 years (24 to 59 years). The main occupation was technician (37%). The average duration was 4.7 years. The main cause was varicocele (71%). All patients had abnormal spermograms. The main abnormality was oligoasthenoteratospermia (26%). We found a statistically significant association between the duration of MI and the number of associated pathologies (P = 0.016), particularly urogenital infections. 87 patients underwent medical (31%), surgical (30%) or medico-surgical (28%) treatment. Assisted reproductive technology was used in 5% of cases. Ultimately, 63.3% had a child, while 36.7% did not.

Conclusion: IM mainly affects patients aged 30-40. The main causes are varicoceles. There is a statistically significant association between the duration of IM and the number of associated pathologies, particularly infections. Treatment is mainly multifaceted and effective in approximately two-thirds of cases.