Knowledge, attitude, and health-seeking behaviour regarding male infertility among men in Northeastern Nigeria

Background: Male infertility accounts for approximately 20–30% of all cases of infertility globally, yet it remains disproportionately underdiagnosed and underreported in sub-Saharan Africa. This study assessed the level of knowledge, attitudes, and health-seeking behaviour regarding male infertility among men in northeastern Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 271 men across six states in northeastern Nigeria using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests of association.
Results: Good overall knowledge of male infertility was found in 88.2% of respondents (mean score: 3.91 ± 1.10 out of 5). However, awareness of the role of smoking in male fertility was limited, with only 49.8% correctly identifying it as a risk factor. Positive attitudes were found in 58.7% of respondents; notably, 50.2% agreed that male infertility reduces social respect. All respondents (100%) expressed willingness to seek hospital care if infertile, but 35.4% would consider traditional healers first. The primary perceived barriers to hospital care were lack of knowledge (41.3%), cost (26.2%), and cultural beliefs (14.8%). Educational attainment was significantly associated with good knowledge (χ² = 16.57, p < 0.001) and hospital-seeking intention (χ^² = 6.88, p = 0.009).
Conclusion: While men in northeastern Nigeria demonstrate a reasonably high level of knowledge regarding male infertility, important gaps remain in risk-factor awareness and attitudinal constructs related to stigma. Educational and community-based health promotion interventions are urgently needed to improve equitable access to reproductive health care for men in this region.