Male Infertility in Burkina Faso: Analysis of Epidemiological, Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Profiles in a University Hospital

Abstract

Background: Male infertility remains understudied in sub-Saharan Africa despite its significant psychosocial impact. This study provides a detailed analysis of male infertility profiles in Burkina Faso. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted from January 2021 to December 2023, including 203 patients presenting with male infertility. Data including sociodemographic characteristics, clinical profiles, semen parameters, and therapeutic outcomes were analyzed. Results: The hospital consultation frequency for male infertility was 3.24%. The mean age was 36.5 years, with a predominance of primary infertility (a couple that has never conceived after one year of unprotected intercourse) (73.89%). Semen analysis revealed oligospermia in 50.24% of cases and azoospermia in 28.57%. Varicocele was the most frequent clinical finding (45.3%). Antioxidant therapy resulted in pregnancy in 5.6% of cases. A sedentary lifestyle showed a significant association with necrospermia (p = 0.002) and abnormalities in sperm concentration (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Male infertility in Burkina Faso primarily affects young men with severe semen abnormalities. Modifiable risk factors, particularly sedentary behavior, appear as crucial targets for prevention strategies.