Psychological Well-being of Women with Infertility: A Study at a Gynaecological Clinic in North Western Nigeria

Abstract Background: Infertility is a major medical condition that affects many married couples globally, and it has an immense psychosocial impact on couples, especially in Africa, where a high premium is placed on child bearing. Aim: The study is aimed to assess depression amongst infertile women attending a gynaecological clinic. Materials and Methods: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the gynaecology clinic in a tertiary health centre in northwestern Nigeria. Data were collected through the use of pretested and validated Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHG–9). It was used to determine the severity of depression as well as assess the social functioning of the respondents. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20 (IBM SPSS statistics for windows version 22.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp) with a statistical significance set at <0.05. Results: The prevalence of depression was 82%. There was a statistically significant association between depression and the age group of the respondents ( P < 0.001), their level of education ( P = 0.002), religious type ( P = 0.003), socioeconomic status ( P < 0.001), tribe ( P = 0.035), employment status ( P < 0.001) and social support ( P = 0.007). Conclusion: Depression is a very common co-morbidity in infertile women. It should not only be screened for amongst infertile women but should be co-managed with psychologists to improve their quality of life.