EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY OF INFERTILITY IN COUPLES IN BAGHDAD

Author Name: 1. Hala M. Th. Tufiak, 2. Samara Ali Radeef Al-Obaidi, 3. May Kassim Khalaf

Volume/Issue: 06/11

Country: Iraq

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/04.2026-75568333/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Fellowship in Infertility and IVF, Specialist Obstetrician and Gynecology, Iraqi Ministry of health, Al-Rusafa Health Directorate, Kamal Al Samarai Hospital Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
2. Fellowship in Infertility and IVF, Specialist Obstetrician and Gynecology, Al-Iraqia University; Alshaab General Hospital, Iraqi Ministry of health, Al-Rusafa Health Directorate, Baghdad, Iraq
3. Fellowship in Infertility and IVF, Specialist Obstetrician and Gynecology, Fatimah AlZahraa General Hospital, Iraqi Ministry of health, Al-Rusafa Health Directorate, Baghdad, Iraq

ABSTRACT

Background: Infertility represents a major public health issue, affecting people of all genders and carrying significant social consequences. It is ranked as the fifth most serious disability worldwide and can deeply influence the self-esteem and psychological well-being of those affected. The aim of this study is to assess the incidence and prevalence of infertility among couples in Baghdad City, Iraq. Methods: A cross-sectional study to evaluate risk factors for infertility. The study conducted in the infertility center in Baghdad, it was carried out between 11th March, 2024, to 3rd May, 2025. The sample consisting of 500 infertile couples were diagnosis with infertility. All individuals attending the infertility center who agreed to participate in the study were included after confirming that they met the predefined eligibility criteria. Each participant was enrolled only once during the study period. A structured questionnaire was specifically developed for this study. Data were collected using a face-to-face interview method. Results: The majority of participants had primary infertility (61.6%, 308), compared to secondary infertility (38.4%, 192). There was a statistically significant association between the study groups and gender (χ² = 10.52, p = 0.001) as well as education level (χ² = 9.87, p = 0.02). Highly significant differences were observed in children number (χ² = 120.6, p < 0.001), management modalities (χ² = 18.75, p < 0.001), and treatment outcomes (χ² = 95.30, p < 0.001). Women with ≥1 child were significantly more likely to have secondary infertility (OR = 19.8, 95% CI: 11.5–34.0). Additionally, miscarriage was significantly associated with secondary infertility (OR = 5.05). Female gender (OR = 1.98) and higher education level (OR = 1.65) also showed significant associations. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that having one or more children was the strongest independent predictor of secondary infertility (AOR = 15.6, 95% CI: 8.9–27.3, p < 0.001). Miscarriage was also significantly associated with secondary infertility (AOR = 4.12, p < 0.001). Female gender (AOR = 1.72, p = 0.018) and higher education level (AOR = 1.48, p = 0.041) remained significant after adjustment. Conclusion: Infertility remains a major reproductive health concern, with secondary infertility more common in women and primary infertility overall. Female infertility rises with age and after childbirth, while male infertility often appears from puberty. Family history also increases risk. These findings emphasize early evaluation, targeted interventions, and personalized treatment, with further research needed to clarify gender-specific risk factors and improve management.

Key words: Primary Infertility, Secondary Infertility, Assisted Reproductive Techniques, IVF, Ovulation Induction