Abstract
Background
As women increasingly delay childbearing for educational and career pursuits, understanding the age-related decline in ovarian reserve becomes crucial to avoid infertility. Egg freezing offers a solution, extending the window for achieving pregnancy with a biological child. However, awareness and acceptance of age-related fertility decline and elective egg freezing vary across countries and social groups.
Methods
This descriptive cross-sectional study investigates fertility awareness, childbearing intentions, and attitudes toward elective egg freezing among 138 undergraduate female students at a private university in Kumasi, Ghana. Data collection employed convenience sampling and a Google-App-based questionnaire.
Results
The majority of respondents were young (below 28 years) (76.3%), Christians (79.26%), and single (57. 78%). Many respondents overestimated their knowledge of age-related fertility decline, with almost half (48.89%) incorrectly believing it occurs after age 40. Primary sources of fertility education included health professionals, the Internet, and television. While most (62.96%) considered childbearing necessary, they would not have a child without a partner. Acceptance of donor egg in-vitro fertilization (IVF) varied based on circumstances, and a significant portion were open to donating their eggs (41.48%). Awareness of elective egg freezing was low, but nearly half (48.89%) expressed interest in it, primarily to retain the option for a biological child. The cost of elective egg freezing was a significant deterrent.
Conclusions
The study revealed a significant lack of awareness regarding age-related fertility decline and elective egg freezing among female university students in Kumasi. Most prefer having a biological child only with a partner. While few were open to donating their eggs or accepting the same to achieve a pregnancy, interest in elective egg freezing was notable, albeit hindered by cost barriers. The study recommends enhanced education by health professionals using social media and television to address these gaps.