My thesis
My research is looking at the implementation of accessible and affordable fertility services in Sub-Saharan Africa. Africa has one of the highest rates of infertility globally that results in heightened stigma, ostracization, marital instability and suicide (predominantly in women). Infertility is defined by the inability to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months of more of unprotected sex. The main causes of infertility in this region are secondary factors associated with untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), reproductive tract infections, unsafe abortions, poor obstetric and postpartum care.
The consequences of childlessness are severe due to the dependence of many families on children for economic survival. Uganda is the first country in East and Southern Africa to implement fertility services through its public health system. Therefore, this is a qualitative case study exploring the barriers and facilitators to implementing low-cost fertility services in a government facility. The findings will provide a holistic picture and roadmap for other developing countries in pursuit of reproductive rights for all, by offering affordable fertility care.
My time in the School of Public Health Sciences (SPHS)
I appreciate the range of health-related topics covered within SPHS. During the PhD seminal classes, I met fellow students in the field of health informatics, nutrition, mental health, addiction studies and more. It has given me an opportunity to broaden my own knowledge base and see the linkages between our work. I also launched MedAtlas - a health-tech start-up in 2021 with the support of the School that has won two awards so far. Becoming an entrepreneur has been incredibly rewarding to my academic journey. It has opened my horizons to think outside the box when identifying solutions to pressing health issues.Through MedAtlas, we are making it easier to find specialist doctors in Africa.
Connect with Margaret through LinkedIn.
Learn more about her health-tech start up, MedAtlas.