Prevalence of Anxiety, Depression and Their Associated Factors Among Women With Infertility at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Northern Tanzania. Analytical Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Background Infertility is a common condition worldwide, affecting millions of people. In African societies, including Tanzania, having children is highly valued as they represent continuity of family, social status, and economic security. Consequently, infertility can profoundly affect emotional well‐being and mental health. However, limited research in Tanzania has explored the prevalence and determinants of mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, among women experiencing infertility, underscoring the need for further investigation in this area. Aims To determine the prevalence of anxiety, depression and associated factors among women with infertility seeking medical care at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), northern Tanzania. Materials and Methods Hospital based analytical cross‐sectional study was conducted from August 2023 to May 2024 among infertile women attending infertility clinics at the tertiary hospital. A structured questionnaire was employed to collect key information together with the PHQ‐4 tool to assess the presence of anxiety and/or depression. STATA version 17.0 was used in data analysis. Results A total of 336 participants were enroled. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was 61.3% and 53.0%, respectively. Overall, 67.0% of participants experienced either anxiety or depression, while 47.0% had both conditions. Women whose partners were unemployed had a significantly higher risk of depression (APR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.30–2.14, p < 0.001) and anxiety (APR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.20–1.99, p < 0.001). Multiparous women were less likely to be depressed than nulliparous women (APR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.53–0.84, p < 0.001). Similarly, women with secondary and tertiary education were less likely to have depression or anxiety compared to those with no formal education. Longer infertility duration (11–15 years) and longer treatment duration (13–24 months) were associated with higher odds of anxiety. Conclusion The study found a high prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders. The partner's occupation and the participant's level of education were linked to both depression and anxiety. Additionally, the history of previous deliveries negatively associated with depression, while the duration of infertility and infertility treatment associated with anxiety. Reflecting the importance of tailored interventions that provide psycho‐social support in this population.