Barriers and Facilitators to Timely Infertility Care-Seeking Among Urban Couples in South India: A Scoping Review
Year: 2026
Type: study-registration
Abstract: Purpose: Infertility is a growing public health concern in South India, yet there is a significant delay in seeking professional medical care among affected couples. This scoping review aims to identify, map, and synthesize the existing evidence regarding the various barriers and facilitators that influence timely infertility care-seeking among urban married couples of reproductive age in South India. Rationale: Understanding these factors is essential for developing targeted interventions, improving healthcare access, and reducing the psychosocial and economic burden associated with delayed infertility treatment. By mapping current knowledge, this review will highlight existing research, identify gaps in the literature, and provide a foundation for future policy and clinical practice. Expected Outcomes: This study will provide a comprehensive synthesis of evidence that: Categorizes the multifaceted barriers (e.g., socioeconomic, cultural, psychological, and systemic) and facilitators (e.g., support systems, awareness, access to information) related to care-seeking. Provides a clear map of research trends and evidence gaps concerning infertility care in the urban South Indian context. Serves as a resource for healthcare providers, policymakers, and future researchers to inform culturally sensitive strategies for improving early intervention and health-seeking behaviors.
Source: Open Science Framework
Language: English
Subfield: Reproductive Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7214527475