AbstractBackground: The prevalence of infertility among couples aged 15 to 49 reaches 10-15% throughout Bangladesh because it exceeds the worldwide average of 8-12%. The research on infertility in Bangladesh shows limited progress and presents deficient services to support couples dealing with the condition.
Objective: This study aimed to identify demographic characteristics, clinical diagnoses, and social implications of infertility among married couples seeking treatment at a tertiary care facility in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Private chamber (Dr. Mehedi's fertility care) from June 2023 to December 2024. Data were collected from 190 participants (113 females, 77 males) using structured questionnaires covering sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, and infertility-related information. Clinical diagnoses were obtained from medical records, and social stigma was assessed using a validated questionnaire.
Results: The mean age of participants was 31.09±7.91 years, with most (32.63%) in the 31-35 age group. Among males, Oligoasthenospermia (27.3%), Oligospermia (23.4.88%) were most common, while females predominantly presented with PCOS (48.7%) and low AMH (24.8%). Primary infertility accounted for 94.21% of cases, and 73% of participants reported experiencing social stigma. Urban residents (60%), those with higher secondary education (45%), and middle socioeconomic status (45%) constituted the majority of participants, with a mean marriage duration of 5.86±2.43 years.
Conclusion: The multiple causes of infertility in Bangladesh result in major male and female contributions to this problem. The primary nature of infertility cases and widespread social disapproval about childlessness demonstrate sociocultural aspects of being childless. Full assessments of the female partners should be followed by prompt PCOS management and psychosocial support services.