Author(s): Olarewaju CA, Ogunleye OB and Bello M

Abstract:
Infertility is one of the major problems faced by married couples, it causes feeling of disbelief, shame, jealousy and anger, and it can lead to withdrawal from social contacts. The purpose of this study was to determine the causes, effects and treatments of infertility among married couples in Akure South Local Government Area (ASLGA) of Ondo State. The study employed descriptive survey research design. Three research questions were stated to guide the study. Twelve hospitals (a general hospital, 8 Private and 3Health centres) were selected through balloting for the study from the available forty-seven in the area. Simple Random Sampling Technique was employed to select twenty married couples from the public hospital and fifteen from each private and health centre to make a total of one hundred and eighty-five (185) respondents. The instrument used for the study was a structured questionnaire. Simple percentage, frequency count and mean were used to analyze data collected. Findings revealed that low sperm count due to infection of genital tract, damage to the oviduct, cervix and uterus as a result of infections like pelvic inflammatory diseases, adverse effects of drugs, abortion and miscarriage cause infertility. It was recommended that any one suffering from infertility should ensure that they keep off from any psychoactive drug except the drugs recommended by gynecologists, government should also provide health centres for married couple for regular medical check-up.