POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME AS A LEADING CAUSE OF INFERTILITY AMONG WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE IN EZIAMA NVOSI, ISIALANGWA SOUTH LGA, ABIA STATE

TOPIC: POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME AS A LEADING CAUSE OF INFERTILITY AMONG WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE IN EZIAMA NVOSI, ISIALANGWA SOUTH LGA, ABIA STATE

TOPIC IS SUITABLE FOR: 
1. Department of Nursing Science

2. Department of Public Health

3. Department of Medical Laboratory Science

This research material contains:

1-Chapter One to Five

2-Recent References/citations

3-Tables/Charts/Graphs in Chapter Four

4-Accurate Data Analysis

5-Table of Contents

6-Questionnare

ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to examine Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome as a leading cause of infertility among women of childbearing age in Eziama Nnvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State. The study was specifically carried out to determine the prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among women of childbearing age in Eziama Nnvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State, assess the risk factors associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among women of childbearing age in Eziama Nvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State, investigate the influence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome on infertility among women of reproductive age in Eziama Nvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State and identify the challenges faced by women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in accessing diagnosis and treatment services in Eziama Nvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State. The study employed the descriptive survey research design. Hence, the questionnaire was used for data collection, while the data collected were analyzed using frequency tables and percentage scores. A total population of 3,200 women of childbearing age was used for the study, from which a sample size of 356 respondents was determined using the Taro Yamane formula and selected through a multi-stage sampling technique involving stratified and convenience sampling methods. However, 341 copies of the questionnaire were duly completed and validated for analysis. From the responses obtained and analyzed, the findings revealed that the prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among women of childbearing age was high as 61.6% of the respondents agreed that cases of the condition were commonly observed in the community. The study also showed that unhealthy dietary habits and hormonal imbalance were major risk factors associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome as 64.0% and 64.8% of the respondents respectively agreed to the statements. Likewise, the findings revealed that Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome significantly contributes to infertility among women as 64.5% of the respondents agreed that the condition contributes to infertility. Furthermore, the study revealed that high cost of treatment and limited availability of specialized healthcare services constituted major barriers to accessing diagnosis and treatment as 62.7% and 63.4% of the respondents respectively agreed to the statements. The study therefore recommends that government and healthcare authorities should intensify awareness campaigns, strengthen early screening services, improve access to affordable treatment, and expand specialized reproductive healthcare services to enhance the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and reduce infertility among women.

Keywords: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Infertility, Women of Childbearing Age, Reproductive Health, Diagnosis and Treatment Services.

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION (Preview)
1.1 Background to the Study
Reproductive health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and health in relation to reproductive system and its functions at all stages of life. Chukwuma and Nelson (2022) emphasized that the health of the reproductive system was a crucial aspect of public health as it was responsible for determining the status of the population and the quality of life of individuals. Similarly, Nwakobe and Ilouno (2024) found that parameters of reproductive performance were influenced by a set of biological, environmental and behavioural factors which impact an individual's reproductive potentials. In addition, Jiang (2025) highlighted how reproductive medicine has advanced and led to a greater understanding of factors that affect females' reproductive abilities. Huang et al. (2024) also argued that fertility-related diseases had been elevated to the forefront of health studies in today's rapidly changing world because they are growing in incidence and have widespread implications. This general information on reproductive health helps the framework of looking at certain disorders that affect the normal reproductive functioning of women of childbearing age.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most visible conditions that impact female reproductive health that has metabolic and reproductive implications. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that includes abnormalities in the morphology of the ovary, hyperandrogenism and abnormalities in ovulatory function, which all interfere with the normal reproductive function (Koike et al., 2023). Mahmood et al (2024) referred to PCOS as one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age in the world. The syndrome becomes evident as a result of irregular menstruation, anovulation, and hormonal imbalance which all disrupt normal ovarian function. Alam et al. (2023) mentioned that the clinical features of PCOS were heterogeneous in nature and vary according to the population; hence the study of PCOS is multidimensional. Deng et al. (2023) also detailed the crosstalk between endocrine disrupting and metabolic dysfunction, and how it facilitates the onset of the condition. Jiang (2025) also stated that PCOS had become a topic of interest in recent years, because of its long-term reproductive and metabolic implications. This knowledge of PCOS forms the foundation to look into its association with the fertility outcomes of women with PCOS.

Fertility and infertility are fundamental issues in the field of reproductive health, especially in the context of PCOS. According to Zhang et al., (2025), fertility is the natural capacity to conceive and reproduce, while infertility is defined as the inability to conceive and/or have a child following a prolonged period of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility is not a disease in itself, but rather an expression of functional defects in the reproduction system which can be caused by either an underlying ovulatory, hormonal, structural or unknown cause. Huang et al. (2024) noted that reproductive changes were one of the most important mechanisms by which reproductive diseases impact fertility. Anosike et al. (2025) also added that PCOS had a significant impact on female infertilities, as it interfered with the proper ovulatory cycles and hormonal balance of the female. Koike et al. (2023) also highlighted that the impact of the syndrome on the development of the follicles, leads to a decreased chance of conception in affected individuals. Mahmood et al., (2024) asserted that PCOS is one of the most common causes of anovulatory infertility worldwide and is an important topic for research in the field of reproductive health. This puts the connection into perspective between endocrine diseases and decreased fertility outcomes in women of reproductive age.

Due to the burden of infertility caused by PCOS distribution of PCOS in various populations and geographical areas has come to the center of attention. Reproductive health conditions are differently presented and managed due to differences in lifestyle and awareness, healthcare access and sociocultural factor. Nwakobe and Ilouno (2024) reported that reproductive health outcomes were often a reflection of underlying factors influencing their prevalence and outcomes that existed for the population. Chukwuma and Nelson (2022) also underlined the need to carry out contextual investigations to have a grasp of the health situation in a particular community. Anosike et al. (2025) noted that PCOS-related infertility might be more or less severe depending on the interaction between environment and genes between populations. Deng et al., (2023) also found that the metabolic and endocrine phenotypes of PCOS were distinct among demographic groups and the impacts of these phenotypes on fertility varied. In this regard, women of child bearing age of Eziama Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government area of Abia State are a population of interest to study PCOS related infertility. Alam et al (2023) validated the importance of reproductive health studies on local scale to understand the nature of global reproductive health in local scale. Hence, the examination of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome as one of the main causes of infertility in women from this area can give a background context on trends in women's reproductive health in the area.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Reproductive health conditions have been studied increasingly in recent years because of the impact they have on fertility outcomes and population wellbeing. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age with reported differences in the presentation and outcome in various populations. Nwakobe and Ilouno (2024) and Jiang (2025) have extensively studied reproductive health conditions like PCOS because of their impact on hormonal balance, ovulatory function and reproductive health. Furthermore, Huang et al. (2024) and Chukwuma and Nelson (2022) highlighted that due to their rising prevalence and effect on women's health, fertility related disorders are in need of constant scientific attention. However, the awareness of PCOS, in relation to infertility, is still low among the people of certain rural and semi-urban areas. This provides a platform for the study of the impact of the condition on fertility outcomes of women of child bearing age in a localized environment like Eziama Nvosi.

Although the reproductive medicine has made great strides, PCOS is still a major cause of infertility in women due to anovulation, hormonal imbalance and abnormal follicular development. PCOS is the leading cause of ovulatory infertility and diagnosis and management of PCOS is inconsistent across populations, as reported by Mahmood et al., (2024) and Koike et al., (2023). In many cases, the best possible scenario would be to diagnose and manage PCOS early, to achieve better fertility results. But in many communities today, delayed diagnosis, limited awareness and inconsistent access to reproductive health care services prevail. Deng et al., (2023) and Anosike et al., (2025) found that these gaps can lead to extended periods of infertility among affected women. There is little empirical evidence that documents how much PCOS contributes to the problem of infertility thus creating a knowledge gap, which this study aims to reduce by studying the prevalence and effects PCOS has in women of child bearing age in Eziama Nvosi.

Furthermore, the gap between existing knowledge and local reality is further exacerbated by the lack of community-specific data on PCOS related infertility in Eziama Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area. Although the works of Alam et al. (2023) and Zhang et al. (2025) have provided a broad understanding of the associations between PCOS and infertility, the varying factors in lifestyle, access to health care, and awareness across different contexts may impact how it is manifested in specific populations. It is hoped that women with PCOS will receive reproductive health education and intervention early on, in order to optimize their fertility potential. Despite this, however, it appears that many are not reported or properly managed because of a lack of local studies and reproductive health screening services. Huang et al. (2024) and Nwakobe and Ilouno (2024) emphasized the need for research at a local level to fill such gaps. The study thus aims to provide empirical evidence of PCOS as a major cause of Female Infertility in Eziama Nvosi so as to aid the understanding and guide health interventions.

1.3 Objective of the Study

The study's overall purpose is to assess polycystic ovarian syndrome as a leading cause of infertility among women of childbearing age in Eziama Nvosi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State. The study, on the other hand, was focused on achieving these precise goals:

1.Determine the prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among women of childbearing age in Eziama Nnvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State.

2.Assess the risk factors associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among women of childbearing age in Eziama Nnvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State.

3.Investigate the influence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome on infertility among women of reproductive age in Eziama Nnvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State.

4.Identify the challenges faced by women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in accessing diagnosis and treatment services in Eziama Nnvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State

Other parts of chapter one include:
1.4 Research Questions

1.5 Significance of the Study

1.6 Scope of the Study

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF LITERATURE (Preview)
This chapter critically examines relevant literature that would assist in explaining the research problem and, furthermore, recognizes the efforts of scholars who had previously contributed immensely to similar research. The chapter intends to deepen the understanding of the study and close the perceived gaps. This chapter therefore focuses on the concept of infertility, concept of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), classification of PCOS, risk factors of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), etc. The chapter is sub-grouped into the following major headings:
Theoretical Framework

Conceptual Framework

Empirical Review

Summary of literature reviewed

CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY (Preview)
Presented below is a snapshot of key areas of the study methodology, the full and detail chapter three methodology is contained in the instant download document.

Research Design: The study adopted a descriptive research design.

Population of the Study: The population of the study comprises women of childbearing age residing in Eziama Nnvoisi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area of Abia State.

Sample Size Determination: The study adopted the Taro Yamane formula to determine a sample size of 356 participants.

Sampling Technique: The study employed a multi-stage sampling technique using stratified sampling and convenience sampling to select the individual respondents.

Research Instrument: The study utilized a structured questionnaire as the instrument for data collection.

Methods of Data Analysis: The collected data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages to summarize and present the demographic characteristics of the respondents and their responses. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis.
Full outline for chapter three;
3.1 Research Design

3.2 Research Setting

3.3 Target Population

3.4 Sample Size

3.5 Sampling Technique

3.6 Instruments For Data Collection

3.7 Validity and Reliability of Instrument

3.8 Pilot Study

3.9 Method of Data Collection

3.10 Method Of Data Analysis

3.11 Ethical considerations

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION 
MAJOR FINDINGS (Preview)
The analysis results were presented in tables and charts. Based on the results obtained from the analysis, the following major findings were made:

i. The study found that Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is commonly recognized as a reproductive health concern among women of childbearing age in Eziama Nnvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State, as evidenced by the response percentages, with 61.6% of respondents agreeing that cases are commonly observed in the community and 63.4% agreeing that associated symptoms are increasingly recognized. This implies that Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is perceived as a notable health concern in the study area, particularly because of the reported occurrence of irregular menstrual cycles and other associated symptoms. However, the findings reflect respondents’ perceptions and do not establish the clinical prevalence of the condition.

ii. The study found that unhealthy dietary habits, hormonal imbalance, stress, and poor lifestyle practices are perceived as important risk factors associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among women of childbearing age in Eziama Nvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State. This is evidenced by the fact that 64.0% of respondents agreed that unhealthy dietary habits contribute to its occurrence, 64.8% identified hormonal imbalance as a major associated factor, and 63.7% agreed that stress and poor lifestyle practices may increase the risk. Furthermore, the majority disagreed with statements denying the relevance of family history, excess body weight, and physical inactivity. This implies that respondents recognize the potential contribution of hormonal, hereditary, dietary, and lifestyle-related factors to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

iii. The study found that Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is perceived to contribute to infertility among women of reproductive age in Eziama Nvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State. This is evidenced by the fact that 64.5% of respondents agreed that the condition contributes significantly to infertility, 64.5% agreed that irregular ovulation reduces the chances of pregnancy, and 63.9% agreed that delayed diagnosis and management may increase infertility problems. This implies that respondents recognize the relationship between Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, irregular ovulation, and difficulties with conception, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management. However, the survey findings alone do not establish that Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is the leading cause of infertility in the community.

iv. The study found that women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome face several perceived challenges in accessing diagnosis and treatment services in Eziama Nvoisi, Isialangwa South LGA, Abia State. This is evidenced by the fact that 62.7% of respondents agreed that the high cost of medical consultation and treatment limits access to care, 63.4% agreed that limited availability of specialized reproductive health services affects access to diagnosis and treatment, and 63.1% agreed that social stigma and fear of discrimination discourage some women from seeking medical attention. Furthermore, the majority disagreed with statements suggesting that diagnostic difficulties, lack of awareness, and distance to health facilities do not constitute barriers. This implies that financial constraints, limited access to specialized healthcare, inadequate awareness, geographical barriers, and social stigma may hinder timely diagnosis and treatment of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among women in the study area.

CHAPTER FIVE: DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter covers the following outline:

5.1 Discussion of Findings

5.2 Implications of the findings

5.3 Limitations of the Study

5.4 Summary

5.5 Conclusion

5.6 Recommendations

5.7 Suggestions for Further Studies

Reference
Appendix

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