ISPUB.COM The Internet Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics Volume 10 Number 2 1 of 7 Cultural Misconceptions And Emotional Burden Of Infertility In South East Nigeria O Umeora, G Igberase, S Okogbenin, I Obu Citation O Umeora, G Igberase, S Okogbenin, I Obu. Cultural Misconceptions And Emotional Burden Of Infertility In South East Nigeria. The Internet Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2008 Volume 10 Number 2. Abstract Background: Infertility is prevalent in Southeast Nigeria and may impart negatively on the emotional and social wellbeing of affected couples. Aims & Objectives To assess the prevalence, pattern, misconception and sources of infertility crisis among the Igbo population of Southeast Nigeria. Materials and Methods In depth interviews with women attending infertility, over a six month period (July to December 2006). Results: Twenty four women were interviewed, 66.7% had secondary infertility. Women were held responsible for infertility and bore the burden of seeking treatment. They suffered intimate partner abuse, psychological and emotional trauma from their families, as well as isolation and stigmatization from the society Conclusion. Medical education on the physiology of infertility may play a role in the integration of men in treatment seeking process in infertility. Doctors should manage the emotional and psychological aspects of infertility. INTRODUCTION Infertility is a global problem particularly in the developing countries. It is estimated that one in three couples is affected in countries within central Africa according to a report 1 . Infertility is common in gynecological clinic consultations in Nigeria. The African society places passionate premium on procreation in any family setting. The woman's place in marriage remains precarious till confirmed through child bearing. In the society, a woman has to prove her womanhood through motherhood. The man also has to confirm his manhood in same fashion. Children are held as sources of pride, strength and economic fortune for the family, a man's wealth and strength being equated to his progeny. Infertility therefore entails a loss of something even though previously inexistent is thought to be tangible and therefore impacts negatively on a couple's mental and social wellbeing 2 . Infertility constitutes a crisis in the affected African family. The attendant emotional, psychological, cultural and social burdens drain the couple of self belief and esteem. The unsolicited and often inpatient societal demands and expectations place on such couples unimaginable pressure and tension. They may become isolated and neglected consequent upon the attendant social stigmatization 3 . Illiteracy is rife in most communities in Southeast Nigeria. Medical knowledge is abysmal. Diseases and disease processes are interpreted variously to suit the different fora and situations. Many notions exist as to the etiopathogenesis of infertility. Taken generally, the female is held responsible for virtually all cases of infertility. The men folk are held as above board. Consequent upon this, the woman is humiliated