Predictors of Quality of Life in Infertile Women: Comparison between UK and Nigerian Women

Abstract

Adanna Achinanya*, Robert Akparibo, Michael Aziken, Vidya Tamhankar and Dilly Anumba

Background: Predictors of Quality Of Life (QOL) vary in different infertile populations. Identifying factors that promote or worsen the quality of life in different regions and populations is thus essential to inform interventions designed to improve the quality of life for infertile women. This study examined the QOL of infertile women accessing Assisted Reproductive Treatment (ART) in two contrasting countries: the UK and Nigeria. The study also sought to identify predictors of the quality of life of these women.

Methods: Quality of life was measured using the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire in 116 infertile women (UK=64, Nigeria=52) accessing ART. The socio-demographic details of the women were collected using a structured questionnaire. Predictors of QOL were evaluated using multiple regression analysis.

Results: UK women obtained higher QOL scores in all domains compared to Nigerian women. Multiple regression analysis showed that among the UK women, increased age, level of education and income were associated with a positive impact on quality of life (p<0.05). In contrast, prolonged duration of infertility had a negative effect on QOL scores (p<0.01). However, female-related infertility and decreased income levels within the Nigerian cohort were associated with negative QOL scores.

Conclusion: Infertility impairs various aspects of QOL of women affected by it, regardless of the population. A comprehensive evaluation of these women should include effective counseling and assessment of their socio-cultural backgrounds.