Abstract
Abstract Study question To investigate the beliefs and knowledge of university students regarding fertility. Summary answer University students are aware of the impact of unhealthy lifestyle on fertility. There are however misconceptions about the ideal age for childbearing and treatment limits. What is known already The gradual decline in fertility is currently well documented. Furthermore, the mean age of first-time mothers is increasing, especially in groups with higher educational levels. However, the level of awareness (sensitization) of couples to infertility factors such as female age and environmental factors is not well-known. Study design, size, duration A 12 items-questionnaire on infertility aspects « 12QSI » was previously developed and validated. The questionnaire is divided into 3 sections: (i) epidemiology of infertility, (ii) causes and risk factors for infertility, and (iii) treatment of infertility. A seven-month online survey of a random sample of Tunisian students was conducted. Data collection was carried out via Google Forms® by sharing the link on social media platforms and groups. Participants/materials, setting, methods The survey was completed by 800 respondents. We retained 775 responses according to the inclusion criteria: complete response, being of childbearing age and attending university education. Statistics were obtained using SPSS® software. Main results and the role of chance Participants were 24.6 ± 5 years of age on average. Almost 57% were women. The average knowledge score was 56.7 ± 28%. The lowest scores were found for the questions on infertility treatment (only 15% of correct answers) with an overestimation of the chances of success of Assisted reproductive technology (ART). An underestimation of the impact of age on both male and female fertility was reported. The mean score was significantly better for the group of respondents studying medicine than for the rest (63 ± 32% vs. 48 ± 26%; p < 0.001), and for respondents who have faced an infertility problem compared to those who have not (65 ± 28% vs. 56.3 ± 29%; p < 0.001). Limitations, reasons for caution The representativeness of the sample is not ensured. Survey distribution only through social networks could be a limit. Wider implications of the findings Over-optimism regarding the importance of age and the effectiveness of infertility treatments is noted, which can lead to unintended infertility. Educational programs should be developed to address erroneous beliefs and to increase the population`s knowledge of fertility. Trial registration number
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