Experiences Of Persons Accessing Assisted Reproductive Technology In Selected Health Facilities In Southern Ghana

Abstract

The value placed on children in developing countries, including Ghana compels persons who do not have children to resort to alternative means of having children. Thus, this study explored the experiences of persons accessing assisted reproductive technology in selected health facilities. The objectives of the study were to (a) ascertain how infertility affects men and women in selected health facilities, (b) explore the socio-cultural implications of infertility among persons with fertility problems in selected health facilities, (c) identify the various types of assisted reproductive technology available to persons, and (d) explore the challenges that individuals and couples encounter as they access assisted reproductive technology in selected health facilities. Using a qualitative research design, twenty participants were purposively selected as participants for the study. Individual in depth interviews were conducted to collect data and the findings revealed that, even though both men and women were affected by infertility, the intensity on women was severe. This was mainly due to society’s perceptions about the causes of infertility. The study also found that, there were some challenges associated with assisted reproductive technology, which included psychosocial, economic, and medical. In addition, the findings indicated that, society had negative perceptions about infertility and the use of assisted reproductive technology as an alternative means of having children. Based on the findings, the study recommended that there should be education and sensitization programs that would aim at changing society’s perceptions about infertility and assisted reproductive technology. Also, there is the need for practitioners of assisted reproductive technology to educate the public about assisted reproductive technology and its benefits.