Knowledge, Attitudes and Treatment-Seeking Behavior of Filipino Men and Women with Fertility Problems

Abstract

This study determined the knowledge, attitudes, and treatment-seeking behavior of Filipino men and women with fertility problems. Participants were 386 clinically diagnosed infertile Filipino men and women consulting in selected private and government healthcare facilities in Metro Manila from August to September 2006. A self-administered survey questionnaire that assessed knowledge and attitudes about infertility, and questions related to the treatment-seeking behavior of patients at both initial consultation and subsequent treatment, was utilized. The results indicated that there was generally low knowledge about various infertility issues. Statistical significance was found only among groups classified by educational attainment, and no apparent trends with age and income level were seen. Attitude was moderate, although no significant differences were found in all groups. Seventy five percent (75%) of the 386 respondents sought medical consultation within 2 years of marriage. Males wanted to have children earlier, but females decided to seek help earlier than males when pregnancy is not achieved. Older respondents sought treatment earlier than their younger counterparts. Financial sustenance was the primary factor for decisions to continue with treatment after an initial failure. Those with higher income considered the potential chances for success as their primary motivation to continue treatment. These findings hoped to provide the necessary data to guide clinicians and health policymakers with regard to the effective management of couples or individuals with fertility problems.