Infertility is becoming a growing concern among couples in Uganda, affecting thousands of families silently. Many struggle with the pain of childlessness but few openly talk about it because of stigma, shame, and cultural expectations.
How Common Is Infertility in Uganda?
Studies from the Uganda Demographic and Health Surveys (2006, 2011, and 2016) show that infertility is a reality for many women aged 20–49 years. Overall, about 6.4% of women face infertility challenges.
Primary infertility (never conceived before) was 1.4% in 2006, 0.7% in 2011, and 0.8% in 2016.
Secondary infertility (conceived before but unable to again) has remained around 7% over the years.
This means that while some women never get to conceive at all, many others who once had children find themselves unable to do so again.
What Causes Infertility?
Doctors say the reasons are many, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle choices and even cultural practices.
Infections: Untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), blocking fallopian tubes.
Hormonal disorders: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) interfere with ovulation.
Uterine and ovarian problems: Fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis can affect conception or cause miscarriage.
Male infertility: Often hidden by stigma, but it contributes significantly. Low sperm count, poor sperm movement, infections, and mumps orchitis are some causes.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol abuse, poor diet, and exposure to toxins reduce fertility in both men and women.
Age: Many couples in urban areas now delay marriage and childbearing. But fertility naturally declines, especially after age 35.
Unsafe abortions and poor maternal care: These can damage the uterus and increase infertility risks, especially in rural areas.
Cultural practices: Female genital mutilation and the use of certain traditional herbs can cause lasting reproductive harm.
The Emotional and Social Impact
In Uganda, where children are often seen as the heart of marriage, infertility can cause stress, broken relationships, stigma, and isolation. Women are particularly blamed, even when the problem lies with the man. Many couples suffer in silence instead of seeking medical help.
What Can Be Done?
Experts emphasize that infertility can be treated, but the first step is seeking medical help. Hospitals like UMC Victoria and Mulago National Referral Hospital now offer advanced solutions, including In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), which has already helped some Ugandan couples become parents.
Doctors also encourage early testing, safe sex practices, proper nutrition, and avoiding harmful substances to reduce risks. Counseling and open conversations between partners are also key to coping with the emotional strain.
A Message of Hope
While infertility remains a challenge, it is not the end of the road. With the right medical care, many couples in Uganda can still achieve their dream of parenthood. Breaking the silence around this issue may be the first step to healing, treatment, and hope.
