THE EFFECTS OF LIFESTYLE CHOICES ON FERTILITY RATES OF WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN EGOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF EDO STATE

This study investigated the effects of lifestyle choices on fertility rates of women of reproductive age in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. To achieve the purpose of the study, two (2) research questions were raised and answered. The Descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study. The population of the study comprised one hundred and thirty-one (131) women of reproductive age attending the University of Benin Teaching Hospital fertility clinic. The census/total population sampling technique was used to select a sample size of one hundred and thirty-one (131) women from the total population, due to the small population size available. The instrument used for data collection was a closed-ended questionnaire. The instrument was validated by four experts in the Department of Health, Safety, and Environmental Education, Faculty of Education, University of Benin, Edo State. The data collected was analysed using percentages and frequency counts. The findings of this study revealed that dietary pattern do not indicate their infertile status. Furthermore, it was found that physical activity improves reproductive outcomes and overall health among infertile women. It was therefore recommended to encourage the consumption of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein, and whole grains to support overall reproductive health. Programs should be developed to encourage women to engage in moderate physical exercise regularly.