Acceptability And Experiences With Assisted Reproduction In Ghana

ABSTRACT

The use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) has emerged as an

alternative option to have children in Ghana. This study aimed at investigating

the use of ART as a treatment option for infertility in Ghana. Specifically, the

study investigated assisted reproductive technology services delivery, assessed

the experiences of infertile individuals/couples undergoing assisted

reproduction processes, explored the experiences of individuals/couples who

have successfully delivered through the use of ART, and the religious

acceptability of the use of assisted reproductive technology services among

Ghanaians. A qualitative approach using in-depth interview was utilised to tap

into the experiences of respondents. The model of help seeking for infertility

was adopted as the conceptual framework for the study. The study revealed

that ART services such as IVF, ICSI, GIFT, ZIFT, TESA, gamete donation,

embryo freezing and surrogacy were employed by service providers. Key

religious figures from the Islamic and Christian religions upheld their

religions’ acceptability of the use of ART to treat infertility but condemned the

use of third-party reproductive resources. The Traditionalist did not support

the use of ART services at all. Infertile women went through challenges such

as stigmatisation, abuses and abdominal pains but these challenges ceased

when women achieved parenthood. Women who were undergoing treatment

reported of health and other implications such as dizziness, nausea, abdominal

pains and other psychological challenges. Cost of treatment was also identified

to be high. Some clients had to seek financial support from banks. Generally,

the use of ART to treat infertility is accepted in Ghana. However, there is the

need for the state to streamline policies to guide the use of this technology.