Epidemiology and management of infertility: A hospital-based study in North and Central Kashmir region

Abstract

Introduction: Infertility is an important reproductive health concern that is affected by demographic, physiological, psychological, and healthcare-related parameters. Kashmir's unique socioeconomic and environmental parameters enhanced the risk of infertility. The study evaluated the prevalence of infertility, identify related factors associated with the risk factors and assessed the healthcare management strategies among women in North and Central Kashmir.
Aim: The study is aimed to evaluate the association of age, menstrual factors, hormonal profile, diagnostic findings, and management practices with the type of infertility (primary or secondary) among infertile women.
Method: This observational study included 150 infertile women diagnosed with either primary (n=120) or secondary infertility (n=30). Demographic and menstrual histories were recorded, followed by laboratory evaluation of FBS, TSH, FSH, LH, prolactin, and AMH levels. Diagnostic investigations included ultrasonographic folliculometry, pelvic ultrasonography, HSG, and TORCH screening. Clinical diagnoses and treatment modalities were documented. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Pearson’s Chi-square test, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.
Result: Among 150 infertile women, 80.0% had primary infertility and 20.0% had secondary infertility. Women with secondary infertility were significantly older (39.47 vs. 31.06 years; p<0.01), had longer marriage duration (8.93 vs. 2.98 years; p<0.01), higher FSH, LH, and prolactin levels (p<0.01), and lower AMH levels (1.34 vs. 2.24 ng/mL; p<0.01).
Conclusion: The study has concluded that secondary infertility is associated with significantly greater age-related, hormonal, and ovarian reserve abnormalities than primary infertility, necessitating more targeted reproductive evaluation and management.