A STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE REGARDING ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGY AMONG COUPLES AT SELECTED COMMUNITY AREA, KOLLAM

Sandra T. Joseph*, Akhil Shaji, Archana O.J.1, Feba T. K., Sterlin Mary Jose, Jomol John and Sr. Mariamma K. S.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is a global term used to describe the myriad of advanced infertility treatment options available to help couples with infertility to achieve pregnancy. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) includes medical procedures used primarily to address infertility. This subject involves procedures such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), cryopreservation of gametes or embryos, and or the use of fertility medication. When used to address infertility, ART may also be referred to as fertility treatment. ART mainly belongs to the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. Some forms of ART may be used with regard to fertile couples for genetic purpose. Materials and Methods: Quantitative research approach with non-experimental research design was used in this study. The study was conducted at Pallithottam community area, Kollam, Kerala. The target population were couples at selected community area. Non probability convenience sampling technique was used to collect data. Formal permission was taken by Institutional Ethics Committee and consent from the couples and data were collected through structured knowledge questionnaire. The tool used consisted of demographic pro forma and knowledge of participants related to assisted reproductive technology. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Result: The finding of the present study revealed that out of 100 samples, 67% had inadequate knowledge, 32% had moderate and only 1% had adequate knowledge regarding ART. The study also revealed that there was significant association between knowledge regarding ART with selected demographic variables such as age, education and occupation at 0.05% level of significance and no significant association with gender, religion, duration of marriage, number of children, age of children, family history of infertility and infertility treatments taken. Conclusion: Research Trusted Source also indicates that worldwide, 8–12% of couples experience fertility problems, and 40–50% of cases stem from factors that affect males. The finding of the present study revealed that out of 100 samples, 67% had inadequate knowledge, 32% had moderate and only 1% had adequate knowledge regarding ART.

Keywords: Assess, Knowledge, Structured knowledge questionnaire, Assisted Reproductive Technology.