Reasons for Primary Subfertility among Couples in Sri Lanka

Subfertility is defined as a failure to conceive after one year of unprotected regular sexual intercourse. Primary subfertility occurs where a couple has never been pregnant. A remarkable drop in fertility rates and an increase in primary subfertility have been noticed all over the world. It could be arising from one or more reasons in either or both partners. This descriptive study aims to empirically investigate the reasons for primary subfertility among males, females and for both in a Sri Lankan setting. Findings revealed that sperm quality problems, post-testicular causes, ovulatory problems and premature ovarian failure were seen among among males and females respectively. Negative lifestyle such as; obesity, lack of exercise, unbalanced nutrition and longer duration of primary subfertility are common reasons in both partners. The study findings highlighted the need to identify fertility needs of the couple when they first report trouble conceiving. Therefore, it is better to take appropriate measures at the community level and national level to promote behaviors that maintain fertility, remove risk factors, and to identify primary sub-fertility as early as possible.