Family & Society

How can infertility affect couples and families in Pakistan?

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Answer

Direct answer

Infertility can bring distress, treatment costs, blame and family pressure. WHO’s 2023 estimate of about one in six adults experiencing infertility during life is global, not a measured Pakistani rate.

A Punjab study published in 2013 interviewed 12 women and 8 men in 2008 and described gendered stigma and unequal social burdens. It illustrates experiences rather than national prevalence. Either partner may have contributing factors; seek confidential clinical assessment rather than blaming one person, and agree together what to disclose to relatives.

Evidence

Sources used

International Health Evidence · 2023

1 in 6 people globally affected by infertility: WHO

World Health Organization

WHO release of 4 April 2023: about 17.5% lifetime prevalence globally, not a Pakistan-specific estimate.

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Academic Research · 2013

Understanding the impact of gendered roles on the experiences of infertility amongst men and women in Punjab.

Reproductive Health

Qualitative interviews with 12 women and 8 men conducted in Punjab in 2008. Describes experiences, not national infertility prevalence.

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