Primary and Secondary Infertility among Women in India: Prevalence and Correlates

Harihar Sahoo, International Institute For Population Sciences
Chander Shekhar, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Labhita Das, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

Infertility is a growing concern worldwide, yet it has not received adequate attention. This study investigates the prevalence and potential determinants of primary and secondary infertility among women living in a union for five years or more aged 20–49 in India. Data from fifth round of the Indian National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) were analyzed to study the infertility rates. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to examine the influence of socio-economic factors on infertility. The prevalence of primary and secondary infertility was found to be 1.5% and 13.7% respectively. The regional variation was observed showing a high prevalence of both primary and secondary infertility in southern states. Educational level and standard of living show an inverse relationship with infertility i.e., with more educated and wealthier women experiencing lower infertility rates, possibly due to better access to treatments. Controlling the effect of other variables, urban women were more likely to infertile, may be because of environmental and lifestyle factors. Additionally, diet, obesity, and thyroid disorders were strongly associated with infertility. Infertility is a rising concern, especially in southern India. Policymakers should develop targeted strategies to improve access to infertility treatments and address the socio-economic and health factors contributing to infertility.

Keywords: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Fertility

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