Community Understanding of the causes of infertility in the Upper West Region of northern Ghana

Abstract
Background: Infertility is a major medical condition that affects many married couples in sub-Saharan African and as such associated with several social meanings.
Methods: This study used in-depth, key informant interviews and focus group discussions with infertility couples, fertile couples, and key informants to understand the cause of infertility. Results: The study revealed that infertility was caused by both social and biological factors. Socially couples could become infertile through supernatural causes such as bewitchment, and disobediences of social norms. Abortion, masturbation and use of contraceptives were also identified as causes of infertility. Most childless couples seek treatment from spiritualist, traditional healers and hospital.
Conclusion: Childbearing is highly valued in the community and Childlessness is highly engendered, and stigmatized in this community with manifold social consequences. In such a community therefore, the concept of reproductive choice must encompass policies that make it possible for couples to aspire to have the number of children they wish.