Infertility in Gabon: a survey to determine diagnostic and medical support to patients

ABSTRACT

A survey among gynaecologists practising in Libreville was conducted to ascertain the level of infertility assistance available, and the feasibility of establishing an intrauterine insemination programme in Gabon. This descriptive study invited gynaecologists (n=20) in both private and public hospitals, who are members at the Gabonese Society of Obstetricians Gynaecologists and Reproduction, to participate in the survey. Seventeen (85%) surveys were completed. The information obtained indicated that each gynaecologist consulted with more than fifty patients monthly, and nearly half (45%) of these consultations were infertility related. Male patients were referred to four different pathology laboratories in Libreville for basic semen analyses (without microbiology testing). Nearly 65% of the respondents referred female patients for further infertility treatments elsewhere. Approximately one-third of all couples were unable to access additional medical assistance. This survey can be viewed as motivation for health policymakers to initiate discussions to improve medical diagnostics and implement accessible fertility services in Gabon. Gynaecological expertise, together with a developed infrastructure in Libreville, could serve as an appropriate base for the advancement of reproductive treatment facilities