Knowledge, Attitude and Perceptions Regarding Infertility Among General Public in Tamilnadu – An Online Survey

Abstract

Context: Infertility, an issue of great concern with rising number of cases every year, can affect anyone in the reproductive age.
Aims: To assess the knowledge, attitude and perception regarding infertility among common people.
Settings and Design: Web based Cross-sectional observational study.
Methods and Material: The cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey questionnaire. 583, from 749 responses were
included, excluding responses from infertile participants.
Statistical analysis: Statistical analysis was done using IBM.SPSS. Statistics.v22. Chi square and Spearman correlation tests were
applied to appropriate data.
Results: Among 583 responses, majority were from females (60.21%), and non-medical/paramedical educational background
(51.46%). 64.84% of the participants had above average knowledge about infertility. However, respondents lacked adequate knowledge
about the influence of moderate and intense exercise, menstrual cycle and contraceptive pills on fertility. Majority of the participants
(66.38%) had a positive attitude regarding infertility. Majority of the respondents believed that infertility is 100% curable (43.22%)
and that it is socially acceptable to have a test- tube baby (68.26%).
Conclusions: There is a significant difference in knowledge, attitude and perception, among males and females and also among
participants with medical/paramedical and other educational backgrounds. Awareness about infertility and certain ways to improve
reproductive health, were spread using video and pamphlets. However, further measures should be taken to give a proper education
regarding sex and
reproductive health, from adolescence, so as to encourage the young generation to be conscious about their reproductive health.