Pains of the bane of infertile women in Southwest Nigeria: a qualitative approach

Context: Infertility can be painful as it affects every aspect of life and relationship. In traditional African societies children are of great socioeconomic value. The invisible grieving of women living with infertility is enormous, and exposes such women to sundry psychological burden. Aims: This study qualitatively explored the viewpoints, and the psychological burden of women living with infertility in southwest Nigeria. Settings and Design: This study adopted a qualitative approach to investigate the experience of women who were undergoing treatment for infertility at a tertiary health facility in southwest Nigeria. Methods and Material: A qualitative approach was adopted for profound exploration with a view to appraising their holistic subjective experiences of infertility. Statistical analysis: Data for analysis was obtained through verbatim transcription of interview as recorded by audio recorder and note taking. Systematic text condensation was used to analyze the data. Results: Majority of the participants who were in monogamous relationship were religious and lived with their spouses. A total of 43 significant statements were discerned and sorted into 8 themes including isolation, anxiety, shame, low self-esteem, anger cum resentment, and hopelessness. Conclusions: It would require a multi-disciplinary approach to relieve the pains, and alleviate the baneful experience of infertile couples.