PERCEIVED IMPACT OF STIGMATIZATION ON PSYCHO-SOCIAL IMPACT OF INFERTILITY ON PATIENTS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Infertility, the inability to conceive after a year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse, affects millions globally, posing significant physical and emotional challenges. (Jimoh, 2011; Obuna, 2012). The associated stigma intensifies the emotional distress faced by those affected (Barker & Moraes, 2022; Culley, Hudson, & Lohan, 2013). Infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after a year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse, affects millions globally and poses significant physical and emotional challenges. The associated stigma intensifies the psychological distress faced by those affected. This study investigated various forms of stigmatization, identified their sources, and explored the association between stigmatization and psycho-social outcomes such as depression, suicidal ideation, and avoidance of social gatherings among patients with infertility in Kwara State, Nigeria.
A mixed-methods research design was employed, utilizing both quantitative (descriptive survey) and qualitative (in-depth interviews) approaches. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 395 patients. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Chi-square test of association, with effect sizes reported using Cramer’s V). Qualitative data were analyzed thematically to capture lived experiences of stigma.
The findings revealed that
i. Stigmatization was significantly associated with depression (Cal. χ² = 407.367, df = 12, p < 0.05, Cramer’s V = 0.72) and;
ii. Avoidance of social gatherings (Cal. χ² = 333.949, df = 12, p < 0.05, Cramer’s V = 0.68). However;
iii. Stigmatization was not significantly associated with suicidal ideation (Cal. χ² = 20.506, df = 12, p > 0.05). The qualitative findings corroborated these results, highlighting experiences of social isolation, emotional distress, and strained relationships.
The study concluded that stigmatization contributes to adverse psycho-social outcomes, particularly depression and social withdrawal, among patients with infertility in Kwara State. It recommends that community-based organizations provide mental health workshops and peer support groups, while government agencies collaborate with advocacy groups to promote social inclusion and reduce avoidance behaviours.