Consequences of infertility in developing countries: results of a questionnaire and interview survey in the South of Vietnam.
BACKGROUND
This study explores the psychological, socio-cultural and economic consequences of infertility on couples' life. The purpose of this research is to improve knowledge about the potentially serious implications of infertility in the South of Vietnam.


METHODS
This study included 118 infertile couples who filled in questionnaires and 28 men and women who were interviewed.


RESULTS
Data of the questionnaire show men and women do not differ in their responses and attitudes towards infertility. Almost one-third of the participants require psychological support. Interviewees experience secrecy, social pressure and economic hardship.


CONCLUSIONS
Offspring are very important to Vietnamese couples. Their future depends on children. Family plays an important role in the experiences of the infertile couple. Economic consequences are a particular distressing factor. There is a need for psychological counselling in the treatment of infertile couples in the South of Vietnam. It should be realised that in developing countries, despite overpopulation, unwanted childlessness is an important social and economical burden that needs attention.
Wiersema
Nicole J
NJ
Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Vrije Universiteit Medical Centre (VUmc), Amsterdam, The Netherlands. nwa300@student.vu.nl
Drukker
Anouck J
AJ
Mai
Ba Tien Dung
BT
Giang
Huynh Nhu
HN
Nguyen
Thanh Nhu
TN
Lambalk
Cornelis B
CB