Prevalence of infertility factors in Pakistan

ABSTRACT

The incidence of various infertility factors in 1386 cases of infertility coming from different parts of Pakistan were studied at Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi and Women Clinic and Fertility Advisory Centre, Islamabad [WCFAC] from May 1990 to April 1992. The age, type and duration of infertility was noted 602 couples [43.4%] had full follow up while 422 [30.4%] had incomplete follow up. The various investigations carried out to evaluate infertility factors have been discussed in detail. The results are grouped into three main groups i.e. male factor, ovulation disturbances and sperm-ovum contact hindrance, which includes tubal and pelvic factors besides other causes. It was found that tubal and other pelvic factors are responsible for infertility in 39.5% cases as compared to 15-30% quoted in various studies. Male factor was responsible in 39.39% and ovulation disturbance was seen in 43.15% which correlates well with similar incidence in literature. It is stressed that evaluation of tubal factor should be resented for specialized centres only, otherwise women are likely to become infertile while being investigated by low grade workers due to the element of sepsis causing tubal blockade. Although the treatment of infertility is not so hopeful here because of costs, yet we can at least help such women by preventing introduction of infection during the course of investigations