A descriptive analysis of a fertility services waitlist in Eastern Canada

Background

Infertility is common and impacts quality of life. Maternal age is an important factor in fertility status, and therefore, timely access to care is critical. Long waits for specialist care remain a reality in Canada, representing an opportunity for early intervention.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the population seeking infertility care in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL).

Study Design

A province-wide, cross-sectional analysis of referrals to Newfoundland and Labrador Fertility Services (NLFS) was conducted. Deidentified data were extracted from patient records. Descriptive analyses of the reason for referral, provincial geographical health zone, and female age, and a comparison of the age of patients referred across the province were completed. Historical live birth data were used to adjust for population differences.

Results

There were 317 eligible referrals received by NLFS over a 6-month period. The most common reason for referral was infertility (n=221, 70%). The overall mean age of referred females was 33.09 years (SD=5.03). The Eastern-Urban region had the highest number of referrals (n=145, 66%), which was greater than expected based on live birth rates (P≤.001). Patients referred from areas outside of the Eastern-Urban region were younger (P≤.001).

Conclusion

Infertility was the most common reason for referral. The age of females referred for infertility emphasizes the need for prompt intervention. There were differences in referral patterns across the province, including a disproportionately high referral rate in the Eastern-Urban region.