INFERTILITY AND ITS EFFECT ON MENTAL HEALTH A CASE STUDY OF SHAO, MORO LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ABSTRACT Infertility is a major public health concern with significant psychological and social effects. This study examined the effect of infertility on mental health among residents of Shao community in Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 300 respondents via a structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations. Findings revealed that 60.7% of respondents reported infertility, with many experiencing it for three years or more. Infertile individuals reported emotional distress, including frequent sadness (54.0%), persistent worry (59.3%), loss of interest in daily activities (42.7%), and sleep disturbances (50.0%). Social consequences such as family pressure (46.0%), stigmatization (34.7%), and marital conflict (30.7%) were common. Coping strategies included religious engagement (47.3%), medical consultation (29.3%), and support from family or spouse (25.3%), while some relied on avoidance behaviours (21.3%). Poor mental health was significantly higher among infertile respondents (72.5%) compared to fertile respondents (32.2%). The study concludes that infertility is both a reproductive and mental health issue and recommends integrating mental health services into infertility care, promoting community awareness, and supporting positive coping strategies. Keywords: Infertility, Mental Health, Social Consequences, Coping, Shao Community, Kwara State