A recent report by the Ghana News Agency has revealed a concerning statistic: infections are responsible for about 85% of female infertility cases in Sub-Saharan Africa. This figure stands in stark contrast to the global average of 33%.
Dr. Nowiah Gorpudolo Dennis, a fertility specialist, shared these findings during a webinar hosted by the Merck Foundation’s “More Than a Mother” initiative. The event was organized in collaboration with journalist associations from Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone, highlighting the urgent need to tackle this growing health crisis.
Root Causes of Infection-Related Infertility
The high infertility rate is largely attributed to untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. If left unmanaged, these infections can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), leading to severe damage of the fallopian tubes and eventual infertility.
Another major contributor is female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), a parasitic infection linked to contaminated water sources. Affecting around 56 million women and girls across the region, FGS is often misdiagnosed as a standard STI, delaying proper treatment and resulting in devastating reproductive consequences.
Far-Reaching Implications for Women’s Health
The alarming rate of infection-induced infertility underlines the need for robust sexual and reproductive health interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa. Experts recommend scaling up access to STI screening and treatment services, implementing comprehensive public health education campaigns, and investing in clean water and improved sanitation to combat diseases like schistosomiasis.
A Call to Action for Policymakers and Health Leaders
Addressing these infection-driven infertility issues is critical for securing better health outcomes for millions of women. Investing in preventive healthcare, raising community awareness, and improving early diagnosis can collectively transform the future of women’s fertility and overall well-being across the continent.
