“We are Having a Vast Trauma” Experiences of Africa Women with Infertility Treatment: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The experience of women undergoing infertility treatment is multifaceted, encompassing a range of physical, psychological, social dimensions and traumatic suffering of women due to cultural beliefs implication in Africa. This study explored and described the experiences of infertility among women receiving treatment in Nigeria. A qualitative descriptive design was implemented in this study. In-depth individual interview with fifteen infertility women (n = 15) was conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. The study utilised both descriptive and thematic content analysis. The key themes identified from this study were as follows: (i) Experience a troubling time, has three subthemes: Un-satisfy able feeling, Reduction of self-esteem and Challenges of self-contained. (ii) Psychological Trauma unpleasant experience has the following subthemes: Stressful and anxiety, Terrible spouse and given your all because is Sacrificial. (iii) Cultural beliefs negative impact has two subthemes: Not palatable, and emotional trauma and Stigmatisation. (iv) Inadequate Resources has one subtheme which is limited infertility centre. Infertility has a serious psychological, physical, social, and economic impact on women lives. The importance of information on the causes, prevention, and treatment of infertility should be prioritized in efforts to lessen the burden and offer psychological support.