Infections Linked to 85% of Female Infertility in Sub-Saharan Africa

Accra: Dr. Nowiah Gorpudolo Dennis, a fertility specialist, has revealed that untreated infections are responsible for approximately 85% of female infertility cases in Sub-Saharan Africa, a figure significantly higher than the global average of 33%. She shared this information during a webinar organized under the Merck Foundation's 'More Than a Mother Community Awareness Programme,' in collaboration with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Nigeria Union of Journalists, and Sierra Leone Association of Journalists.According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Dennis, who serves as the Director of the Family Health Division at Liberia's Ministry of Health, highlighted the direct link between untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and infertility. Many individuals, she noted, remain unaware of underlying infections she termed as 'silent infections,' which can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease. These infections cause scarring in the fallopian tubes, obstructing the meeting of eggs and sperm and making nat ural conception impossible.Furthermore, Dr. Dennis addressed common misconceptions, particularly in Africa, where infertility is often attributed solely to women. She pointed out that male-associated factors are responsible for about half of infertility cases. Stress and unfavourable temperatures were also identified as contributing factors, particularly affecting men. To mitigate these risks, she advised regular exercise, a balanced diet, and abstaining from smoking, alcohol, drug abuse, and excessive caffeine intake.Dr. Daliri Dennis Bomansang, Medical Director of Presbyterian Psychiatric Hospital, Ghana, added that infertility affects about 17.5% of the global adult population, equating to roughly one in six people worldwide. He emphasized the need to destigmatize infertility, linking societal stigma to gender-based violence and psychological trauma. Dr. Bomansang urged the media to raise awareness, challenge stigmas, promote gender equality, and share inspiring stories of women overcoming infertility.In Ghana, societal pressures often begin soon after marriage, as couples face questions about pregnancy. Dr. Bomansang noted that this cultural expectation places undue stress on women, leading to feelings of shame and guilt, while perpetuating the myth that infertility is solely a female issue.