Risk factors for abnormal tubal hysterosalpingographic findings in women presenting with infertility in Jos

Abstract

Background: Acquired structural abnormalities of the female reproductive tract contributes to the aetiology of female infertility. So many presumed risk factors for female tubal infertility are seen among Nigerian women. However, reports on the relationship between these factors and tubal pathology as seen on hysterosalpingography in our environment is limited.
Methods: Three hundred and fifty subfertile women seen at the infertility clinic and sent for hysterosalpingography at the Fluoroscopy unit of department of Radiology, Jos University Teaching Hospital had their Hysterosalpingograms evaluated for tubal pathology.
Results: About 63.1.% of women with prior multiple sexual partners had increased tubal abnormalities compared to those with single partners(45.6%).(p=0.007).A significant proportion(89.9%) of women with history of previous pelvic infection and 63.9% those who got married after 30 years show abnormal tubes(p<0.005 and p=0.022 respectively).Also, those with history of pelvic surgeries had more tubal lesions.
Conclusion: The risk factors for structural tubal abnormalities are preventable. Thus, prevention strategies such as health awareness campaigns against unwanted pregnancy, promotion of responsible sexual behaviour with establishment of youth friendly family clinics is advocated.