Women's perspectives regarding in vitro fertilization as a conception option at the primary healthcare level in Ekiti State

Abstract

Introduction: Infertility remains a significant reproductive health challenge globally. In vitro fertilization (IVF), the most widely used form of assisted reproductive technology (ART), presents an opportunity for overcoming childlessness. Knowledge, perception and attitudes toward IVF remain underexplored, especially in rural settings in Nigeria. This study assessed these aspects among women of childbearing age, especially at the primary healthcare level.

Methods: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey conducted among 222 women of childbearing age, selected from health centers in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, via simple random sampling. Data collected through questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS version 26, applying both descriptive and inferential statistics. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results: Most respondents (63.1%) were aged 20-29 years, with 55.9% employed and 60.8% identifying as Yoruba. Their knowledge of IVF was high, with an average score of 3.06. Overall perception of IVF was favorable (mean = 2.89), and attitudes towards IVF were positive (mean = 3.08). Moderate, statistically significant positive correlation were observed between knowledge and perception (r = 0.520, p < 0.05) and between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.606, p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Women of childbearing age in Ado Ekiti exhibited high awareness, positive perceptions, and favorable attitudes toward in vitro fertilization. However, cost, accessibility, and emotional concerns remain major obstacles. It was recommended to advocate to government and stakeholders for affordable, accessible in vitro fertilization services to increase uptake and acceptance.