Women's expectations of infertility care in Ghana : a qualitative study

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Despite the evidence in favour of holistic fertility treatment, barriers to ensuring access to dedicated, comprehensive care, based on women’s needs, still exist, specifically observed in Ghana, the context of this study. OBJECTIVES : This study explored and described the healthcare expectations of women diagnosed with infertility in Ghana. METHOD : An exploratory qualitative design with a purposive sampling technique was used. Participants were recruited from a hospital in Ghana within the Weija-Gbawe constituency and 20 women diagnosed with infertility within their reproductive age participated in the study. Focus group discussions were used to collect data. Data was analyzed through thematic analysis. RESULTS : Women diagnosed with infertility expect to receive holistic healthcare that will foster their well-being and treatment satisfaction. They expect health assessments to be done regularly and outline various healthcare expectations which include psychological, educational, spiritual, social, and financial expectations. Participants expected treatment at dedicated infertility clinics where providers involve their partners in the treatment program. CONCLUSION : The care of women diagnosed with infertility did not fulfil their expectations as most of their needs were overlooked. Holistic care, based on a bio-psychosocial model is recommended to enhance positive fertility treatment experiences and optimal healthcare for women with infertility.