Abstract:
Introduction:-Sub-fecundity is a waiting time of more than 12 months with unprotected sexual
intercourse to achieve a pregnancy that resulted in a live birth. As a consequence, many couples
are developing psychological, social, and economic effects and insecure life. Since there is limited
information in the country and no further study done in the study area this study will be used as an
input. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude of sub-fecundity and associated factors
in Ambo town.
Objective:-To assess the magnitude of sub-fecundity and associated factors among pregnant
mothers attending Antenatal care service at Ambo town public health facilities, 2021.
Methods:-Cross-sectional study design was conducted among pregnant mothers attending
antenatal care services in Ambo town public health facilities from August 1 to September 30,
2021. A systematic random sampling method was used to select, 368 mothers. Data was collected
through face-to-face using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. A binary logistic regression was
used to identify factors associated with the outcome variable. Variables with a p-value <0.25 in
the bi-variable logistic regression analysis was entered and checked for association in a
multivariable logistic regression model in order not to miss important variable and for adjustment
and prevent the possible confounders. The statistical significance was declared using 95%CI, a p value <0.05.
Result:-In this study, among 368 mothers, 361 were interviewed making a response rate of 98%.
According to this study, 21.3% 95% CI; (17.2-25.5) of mothers was sub-fecund. Factors
associated to sub-fecundity were:- mother age >35 years, AOR 3.743, 95% CI; (1.376-10.18),
menstruation cycle status, AOR 3.152, 95% CI; (1.661-5.98), coital frequency 1 day per week,
AOR 4.766 95% CI; (2.221-10.227), Prim gravida, AOR 2.285 95% CI; (1.183-4.411)
contraceptive used, AOR 1.873 95% CI; (1.002-3.501) and mothers stresses before the current
pregnancy, AOR 1.948 95% CI; (1.026-3.699).
Conclusion:-According to this study, the magnitude of sub fecundity in the study area were
high. Factors associated to sub-fecundity were:- mothers age >35, Prim gravida, menstruation
irregularities, coital frequency 1 day per week, using a contraceptive method, and mothers stresses
before the current pregnancy. Therefore, provide information and awareness for women to plan
pregnancy before 35 years of age, increase the frequency of coital practice, decrease stress and get
treatment for menstruation irregularities were recommended.
