Analysis of Infertility in Basra Governorate, Iraq

الملخص

Background: Infertility represents an escalating health and social concern in developing countries.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the medical and demographic factors contributing to infertility among couples attending the Infertility Center in Basra Governorate.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted on one hundred couples suffering from infertility. Semen samples were collected from men, while vaginal swabs were obtained from women. Bacterial isolates were then diagnosed microscopically and in vitro, and biochemical tests were performed, such as the oxidase test, catalase test on mannitol, Simmons citrate agar, and Klegar Iron Agar test.

Results: Medical evaluation showed that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was the most frequently identified cause of female infertility (44%). Among males, prostatitis was reported in 28% of cases. Other contributing conditions included pelvic inflammatory disease (20%), hypertension (20%), diabetes mellitus (14%), genetic disorders (10%), and hypothyroidism (3%). Microbiological analysis revealed that Escherichia coli was isolated in 15.65% of samples, followed by Staphylococcus haemolyticus (30.43%), Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae (8.69% each), and Proteus mirabilis (8.69%). The prevalence of smoking among infertile males was notably high (90%), while no female smokers were recorded.

Conclusion: These findings highlight the multifactorial nature of infertility, with significant influence from both behavioral factors—such as smoking—and medical conditions, including infections and hormonal disorders. The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive reproductive health strategies that incorporate early diagnosis, infection control, and lifestyle interventions.