An investigation of social inequalities in help-seeking and use of health services for fertility problems in a population-based sample of UK women

Although infertility is an important public health problem, treatment can be expensive and resources are increasingly scarce. This study investigates possible inequalities in the use of medical services for fertility problems. We analysed data from a population-based survey for associations between socio-economic characteristics and help-seeking or use of services, to establish whether inequalities existed. More women of higher social status and education reported fertility problems, but there was no clear trend in help-seeking, investigations or treatments for infertility by social status and education level. New work is planned to investigate these issues more fully, particularly the role of family income.