Weight Disorders Among Infertile Female Clients Attending a North Central Nigerian Private Health Facility
Weight Disorders and Infertility
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59692/61f39h10Keywords:
Female infertility, Obesity, Overweight, Nigeria, AnthropometryAbstract
Background
Infertility affects an estimated 48 million women globally and is often accompanied by cultural and social stigma. Obesity and overweight, now epidemic worldwide, negatively influence reproductive health, while underweight is less common. Developing countries, due to lifestyle changes, are increasingly affected, adding to the burden of infertility management. Objectives
To determine the pattern and prevalence of weight disorders among female partners of infertile couples in a North‑Central Nigerian private hospital.
Methods
A four‑year retrospective evaluation (January 2015–December 2019) was conducted using anthropometric data of female partners of infertile couples attending a private clinic. Data were categorized to establish prevalence of weight disorders. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 21, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Fifty‑two women were included, mean age 32.65±5.21 years (range: 22–42). Primary infertility was observed in 22 (42.3%) and secondary infertility in 30 (57.7%), with no significant age difference (p=0.475). Mean±SD weights were 77.01±15.07 kg for primary infertility and 86.4±15.30 kg for secondary infertility, a significant difference (p=0.018). Based on BMI, 4 (7.7%) had normal weight, 15 (28.8%) were overweight, and 33 (63.5%) were obese; none were underweight. Using Ponderal Index, 4 (7.7%) had normal weight, while 44 (92.3%) were overweight.
Conclusion
There was a high prevalence of weight disorders, particularly obesity, among infertile women in this study. Weight reduction through hypocaloric diet remains a cost‑effective strategy to improve natural fertility, spontaneous conception, and assisted reproductive therapy outcomes.
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