The Nexus of Cultural Values, Indigenous Knowledge, and the Impact of Climate Change on Male Infertility in Ghana

This paper explores the nexus between cultural values, indigenous knowledge, and the impact of climate change on male infertility in Ghana. The study investigates how cultural values and indigenous knowledge shape perceptions, attitudes, and practices related to male infertility in a changing climate. By examining the interplay between these factors, the paper aims to comprehensively understand the complex dynamics surrounding male infertility and its association with climate change. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and quantitative surveys to gather data from Ghana's urban and rural areas. The study investigates the influence of cultural beliefs, traditional practices, and socio-economic factors on the perception and treatment of male infertility. Furthermore, it examines how climate change impacts various determinants of male reproductive health, including temperature changes, altered agricultural practices, and exposure to environmental pollutants. Preliminary findings suggest that cultural values deeply influence the understanding and response to male infertility in Ghana. Traditional beliefs, such as notions of masculinity, gender roles, and expectations of fatherhood, shape the experiences and attitudes of men and their communities. Indigenous knowledge systems, including herbal remedies and spiritual practices, also play a significant role in addressing male infertility.

Additionally, the study reveals the intertwined relationship between climate change and male infertility. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and environmental degradation directly impact male reproductive health. These changes affect agricultural productivity, food security, and access to clean water, which are crucial to maintaining reproductive health and fertility. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for a multi-dimensional approach to address male infertility in Ghana, which recognizes the importance of cultural values and Indigenous knowledge systems while acknowledging the influence of climate change. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and environmental factors influencing male reproductive health, offering valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders working towards sustainable solutions.

Introduction

Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, with far-reaching impacts on various aspects of human life. In addition to its well-documented effects on ecosystems, agriculture, and public health, climate change also poses significant threats to human reproductive health. This paper aims to explore the nexus between cultural values, indigenous knowledge, and the impact of climate change on male infertility in Ghana. By examining the interplay between these factors, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics surrounding male infertility and its association with a changing climate.

Global Climate Change Trends Climate change is driven by the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere, primarily through human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes (IPCC, 2014). The consequences of climate change are evident in rising global temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and rising sea levels (IPCC, 2014).

Health Impacts of Climate Change Climate change has profound implications for human health, affecting both physical and mental well-being (Costelloet al., 2009). It poses risks to various health outcomes, including infectious diseases, malnutrition, respiratory illnesses, and reproductive health (WHO, 2023). While much attention has been given to the impact on maternal and child health, the effects of climate change on male reproductive health has received relatively less scrutiny.

Prevalence and causes of infertility is a global health concern affecting an estimated 15% of couples worldwide, with male factor infertility accounting for about 40%–50% of cases (Agarwalet al., 2015). Male infertility can arise from multiple causes, including genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, structural abnormalities, infections, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures (WHO, 2010). The influence of cultural and environmental factors on male infertility is an emerging area of research.

Cultural values play a significant role in shaping perceptions, attitudes, and practices related to male infertility (Dyeret al., 2005). In many societies, male fertility is closely tied to notions of masculinity, virility, and societal expectations of fatherhood (Inhorn & Patrizio, 2015). Cultural beliefs surrounding infertility can lead to stigma, discrimination, and psychosocial distress for infertile men and their partners (Fido & Zahid, 2019).

Indigenous knowledge systems, including traditional medicine and healing practices, are deeply rooted in many communities worldwide. They offer alternative approaches to understanding and addressing health issues, including male infertility (Pulido-Mongeet al., 2019). Indigenous knowledge often incorporates holistic perspectives, recognizing the interconnections between human health, the environment, and cultural practices.

Climate change can directly and indirectly impact male reproductive health through various pathways. Rising temperatures and heatwaves can impair sperm quality and function, while exposure to environmental pollutants, such as air and water contaminants, can disrupt endocrine systems and impair fertility (Skakkebaeket al., 2016). Changes in agricultural practices and food security can also influence male reproductive health indirectly.

Climate change can have an impact on male infertility in Ghana, and there is a nexus of cultural values and indigenous knowledge that can contribute to mitigating these effects (Awuah-Nyamekye, 2019). Indigenous knowledge systems in Zimbabwe trigger the investigation of signs of impotence associated with male infertility at infancy, puberty, and after marriage (Moyo, 2013). In Ghana, religious beliefs and practices are often drawn upon to obtain a cure for infertility, with the belief in fertility being orchestrated by a supernatural entity (Hiadziet al., 2021).

Adaptation to climate change is an important issue in Ghana, and various adaptation options have been proposed that could be integrated into sectoral policies and planning (Yaro, 2010). Research findings indicate that most African countries are vulnerable to climate change due to challenges such as poverty, weather extremes, and other factors (Fagaribaet al., 2018). Indigenous knowledge systems have been proposed as a way to reduce the vulnerability of rain-fed agriculture to drought in northeastern Ghana (Fagaribaet al., 2018).

Ghana, located in West Africa, is characterized by diverse cultural values, beliefs, and practices that shape perceptions of male infertility. Traditional notions of masculinity, patriarchal social structures, and expectations of fatherhood can significantly influence how infertility is understood and addressed in Ghanaian communities (Owusu-Ansahet al., 2017). The interplay between cultural values and climate change impacts on male infertility remains largely unexplored.

In Ghana, cultural values and indigenous knowledge play a significant role in shaping beliefs and practices related to male infertility. Traditional beliefs often attribute infertility to supernatural entities and rely on religious practices for fertility remedies (Hiadziet al., 2021). These beliefs and practices are deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Ghanaian society.

Climate change can have an impact on male infertility in Ghana through various mechanisms. Environmental factors such as temperature changes, pollution, and exposure to toxins can affect reproductive health and fertility (Hiadziet al., 2021). Changes in agricultural practices and food security due to climate change can also indirectly impact male fertility by affecting overall health and well-being.

Indigenous knowledge systems in Ghana encompass a rich tapestry of traditional medicine, herbal remedies, and spiritual practices. Traditional healers, known as “herbalists” or “medicine men,” play a central role in providing healthcare services, including fertility-related treatments (Ntowet al., 2015). Understanding the use and efficacy of indigenous knowledge in the context of male infertility is crucial for comprehensive reproductive health interventions.

Male infertility, defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse (WHO, 2010), is a growing concern in Ghana. Studies have reported an increasing prevalence of male infertility in the country, with estimates ranging from 15% to 20% (Okaforet al., 2017; Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). This upward trend raises questions about the potential underlying causes and their relationship to climate change, cultural values, and indigenous knowledge.

Cultural Values and Male Infertility

Cultural values and beliefs play a significant role in shaping perceptions, attitudes, and practices related to male infertility in Ghana. Traditional notions of masculinity, gender roles, and expectations of fatherhood influence how men and their communities perceive and respond to infertility issues. For instance, in some cultures, the ability to father a child is closely tied to a man’s self-worth and social status (Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). This can create immense psychological and emotional pressure for men experiencing infertility, often leading to stigma, discrimination, and strain on marital relationships.

Moreover, cultural beliefs and practices surrounding infertility often intersect with religious and spiritual beliefs. Traditional healers, herbal remedies, and spiritual practices are commonly sought after as alternative treatments for male infertility (Okaforet al., 2017). These cultural practices reflect the influence of indigenous knowledge systems, which are deeply rooted in Ghanaian society.

Indigenous Knowledge and Male Infertility

Indigenous knowledge refers to the unique knowledge and practices developed by local communities over generations. It encompasses a range of skills, beliefs, and cultural expressions that are passed down through oral traditions and lived experiences. In the context of male infertility, indigenous knowledge systems in Ghana offer alternative perspectives and remedies that are deeply intertwined with cultural values.

Herbal remedies, for example, are commonly used as traditional treatments for male infertility (Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). Plants with purported medicinal properties are utilized in various forms, such as teas, concoctions, and topical applications. Traditional healers, who possess specialized knowledge about the use of medicinal plants and spiritual practices, often play a vital role in addressing male infertility (Okaforet al., 2017).

Climate Change and Male Infertility

The impact of climate change on male infertility is a relatively understudied area. However, emerging evidence suggests that environmental changes associated with climate change can have profound effects on male reproductive health. Temperature increases, for instance, have been linked to decreased sperm quality and fertility (Levineet al., 2017). Heat stress can disrupt the production of sperm cells and impair their function, leading to reduced fertility rates (Skakkebaeket al., 2016).

Furthermore, climate change affects agricultural productivity, food security, and access to clean water, all of which are essential determinants of reproductive health. Changes in rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts can lead to crop failures, economic instability, and nutritional deficiencies, all of which can indirectly impact male fertility (IPCC, 2014).

This paper aims to explore the nexus between cultural values, indigenous knowledge, and the impact of climate change on male infertility in Ghana, guided by the following research questions:

1. How do cultural values and beliefs shape perceptions, attitudes, and practices relate to male infertility in Ghana?

2. How does indigenous knowledge influence the understanding and treatment of male infertility in Ghana?

3. What is the relationship between climate change and male infertility in Ghana?

4. How do climate change impacts on agriculture, water resources, and environmental pollution contribute to male infertility in Ghana?

By addressing these research questions, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics surrounding male infertility in Ghana and contribute to the development of effective strategies and interventions.

Study Site and Cultural Values, Indigenous Knowledge

The study site and cultural values play a crucial role in shaping perceptions, attitudes, and practices related to male infertility in Ghana. This section provides an overview of the study site, highlighting the cultural diversity and unique socio-cultural context of Ghana. Additionally, it explores the cultural values and indigenous knowledge systems that influence the understanding and treatment of male infertility in the Ghanaian context.

Ghana, located on the West Coast of Africa, is a country known for its cultural richness and diversity. It is home to numerous ethnic groups, each with its distinct traditions, languages, and belief systems. The major ethnic groups in Ghana include the Akan, Guan, Ewe, Ga-Adangbe, and Mole-Dagbani, among others. These ethnic groups contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of the country, shaping the values and practices related to male infertility.

Ghana’s cultural diversity is reflected in various aspects of daily life, including language, clothing, music, dance, and food. Each ethnic group has its unique cultural practices and social norms, which influence perceptions and behaviors regarding male infertility. For instance, the Akan ethnic group, the largest in Ghana, places great importance on fertility and procreation as it is seen as essential for the continuity of the family lineage (Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). Understanding the cultural diversity within Ghana is essential for comprehending the complexities surrounding male infertility and its treatment.

The socio-cultural context of Ghana plays a significant role in shaping the experiences and attitudes towards male infertility. Ghanaian society is predominantly patriarchal, with defined gender roles and expectations. Men are often expected to demonstrate their virility and potency through fatherhood, and infertility can be perceived as a failure to fulfill these societal expectations (Okaforet al., 2017). The stigma associated with male infertility can lead to psychological distress and strain on marital relationships.

Moreover, the influence of religion cannot be understated in Ghana. The country has a religiously diverse population, with Christianity, Islam, and traditional African religions being the major faiths. Religious beliefs and practices intersect with cultural values, shaping perceptions and treatment-seeking behaviors related to male infertility (Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). Traditional healers, who often incorporate spiritual rituals and herbal remedies, hold significant influence in addressing male infertility within the context of indigenous knowledge systems.

Cultural Values and Male Infertility in Ghana

Cultural values in Ghana have a profound impact on the understanding, perception, and treatment of male infertility. These values are shaped by historical, social, and religious factors, influencing the beliefs and behaviors of individuals and communities.

In the Ghanaian society, notions of masculinity and gender roles are closely tied to fertility and procreation. Men are expected to father children and continue the family lineage. Infertility challenges these traditional gender roles and may be perceived as a threat to masculinity (Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and emasculation among men experiencing infertility.

The pressure to conform to societal expectations of masculinity can also influence the decision to seek treatment for infertility. Men may be hesitant to acknowledge their infertility or pursue medical interventions due to fear of judgment and social ostracism (Okaforet al., 2017). Cultural values that emphasize male virility and the ability to father children can contribute to the underreporting and underdiagnosis of male infertility in Ghana.

In many Ghanaian communities, fatherhood is not only valued for its familial significance but also for its broader social implications. Being a father is often associated with increased respect, social status, and authority within the community (Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). Men experiencing infertility may face societal pressure to fulfill these expectations, which can lead to psychological distress and strained relationships with their partners and families.

The social consequences of male infertility, such as strained marital relationships and societal judgment, can perpetuate the stigma surrounding infertility. This stigma further inhibits open discussions about male infertility and can hinder seeking appropriate medical interventions.

Indigenous Knowledge and Male Infertility in Ghana

Indigenous knowledge systems in Ghana play a significant role in shaping perceptions, attitudes, and practices related to male infertility. These knowledge systems encompass a range of practices, beliefs, and remedies that have been developed and passed down through generations within local communities.

Herbal remedies are widely used in Ghana as traditional treatments for male infertility. Various plant species are believed to possess medicinal properties that can enhance fertility and improve reproductive health. These remedies are often prepared as teas, concoctions, or topical applications and are administered under the guidance of traditional healers (Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). The use of herbal remedies reflects the influence of indigenous knowledge systems in addressing male infertility.

Traditional healers, who possess specialized knowledge and skills in herbal medicine and spiritual practices, play a critical role in the management of male infertility (Okaforet al., 2017). They often provide holistic care by addressing both physical and spiritual aspects of infertility. The use of indigenous knowledge and traditional healing practices underscores the cultural significance and acceptance of alternative approaches to fertility treatment in Ghana.

Religion and spirituality are deeply embedded in Ghanaian culture and are intertwined with the understanding and treatment of male infertility. Traditional African religions, Christianity, and Islam all have their unique perspectives on fertility, reproduction, and healing. Spiritual and ritualistic practices are often employed to seek divine intervention and support for fertility issues. These practices may involve offerings, prayers, and ceremonies performed by religious leaders or traditional healers. They provide a sense of hope, comfort, and emotional support to individuals and couples experiencing infertility. Indigenous knowledge systems incorporate these spiritual practices, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects of reproductive health.

In summary, the study site, Ghana, is characterized by cultural diversity and a socio-cultural context that significantly influences perceptions, attitudes, and practices related to male infertility. Cultural values, including notions of masculinity, expectations of fatherhood, and social status, shape the experiences of men and their communities regarding infertility. Indigenous knowledge systems, such as herbal remedies and spiritual practices, offer alternative approaches to the understanding and treatment of male infertility. Acknowledging and understanding the influence of cultural values and indigenous knowledge is crucial for developing effective interventions and strategies to address male infertility in Ghana.

Method

This section outlines a qualitative research approach investigating the correlation between cultural values, indigenous knowledge, and the impact of climate change on male infertility in Ghana. A total of 353 participants from the savanna zone of Ghana were involved in the study, selected randomly from diverse regions. Purposeful sampling ensured a varied representation across age, ethnicity, and socio-economic backgrounds. Data collection methods comprised in-depth interviews with key informants and focus group discussions with community members. Thematic analysis was then utilized to interpret the data gleaned from these qualitative methods.

A qualitative research design was employed in this study to delve into the relationship between cultural values, indigenous knowledge, and climate change’s effects on male infertility in Ghana. Participants (353 individuals) were randomly selected from the savanna zone, covering the Northern, Upper East, Upper West, and Brong Ahafo Regions (Table I). Purposeful sampling techniques were applied to ensure the inclusion of individuals with expertise in male infertility, cultural values, indigenous knowledge, and climate change impacts. Data collection involved in- depth interviews with key informants, including men experiencing infertility, their partners, community leaders, traditional healers, and healthcare professionals. Additionally, focus group discussions were conducted with community members, including men, women, and elders, to capture collective perspectives on male infertility. Thematic analysis was systematically employed to analyze the data obtained from these qualitative methods.

Table I. Communities Surveyed

Community	N	%
Brong Ahafo	28	7.9
Northern	199	56.4
Upper East	65	18.4
Upper West	61	17.3
Total	353	100.0

Demographic information was collected from the participants to provide context to the sample population. The average age of participants was 45 years, spanning a broad age range from their early 30s to late 50s. The participant pool included both men and women (Table II), ensuring diverse perspectives on male infertility. All participants were married, facilitating an exploration of experiences and perceptions within marital relationships and providing insights into the socio- economic factors that may influence perceptions and access to healthcare services related to male infertility.

Table II. Gender Distribution

Gender	N	%
Female	21	5.9
Male	332	94.1
Total	353	100.0

Results and Discussion

Over 65% (Table III) of the respondents in the study recognized a cultural nexus to fertility, emphasizing the profound influence of cultural heritage on their beliefs. This aligns with existing research that highlights the significance of cultural values in shaping perceptions of health and illness (Smith, 2018). Participants viewed cultural heritage as a vital link to their traditions, encompassing dietary practices, attire, language, and traditional remedies (Aktürk & Lerski, 2021). Ghanaian culture places importance on values like family unity, respect for elders, honoring customary leaders, and upholding dignity and social decorum (Adams & Boateng, 2019). Participants emphasized that individual actions impact not just the family but also the broader social group and community, with family responsibilities taking precedence in life (Hennekam & Shymko, 2020).

Table III. Believed Cultural Nexus to Fertility

Response	N	%
No	121	34.3
Yes	232	65.7
Total	353	100.0

Regarding beliefs about male infertility, participants highlighted the intertwining of cultural values and belief systems in understanding reproductive health issues. This resonates with previous studies that have explored the role of culture in shaping health beliefs and practices (Brown & Smith, 2017). They expressed views that cultural or spiritual elements like curses, spiritual practices by co-wives, or witchcraft—often attributed to close female relatives—could be contributing factors to infertility (Kwame & Mensah, 2018). Even among those educated on biological causes of infertility, a lingering belief persists that cultural factors may play a role in reproductive health outcomes (Kuuget al., 2023).

Traditional healers were noted to play a significant role in addressing infertility issues by leveraging their extensive knowledge and conducting thorough assessments based on cultural observations. This finding is consistent with research highlighting the importance of traditional healers in providing healthcare services within cultural contexts (Twumasi-Ankrahet al., 2019). These healers utilize herbal remedies based on traditional knowledge and observations, with reported instances of successful outcomes (Jacobet al., 2024).

In conclusion, Ghanaian cultural values deeply influence perceptions and beliefs surrounding male infertility. Participants’ acknowledgment of cultural and spiritual factors as potential causes of infertility underscores the enduring impact of traditional beliefs in shaping attitudes towards reproductive health. Traditional healers’ involvement in infertility treatment further highlights the integration of cultural practices in addressing reproductive challenges within the Ghanaian context. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on the intersection of culture and health beliefs in understanding reproductive health issues.

Indigenous Knowledge

The majority of respondents demonstrated a profound understanding of indigenous knowledge related to male infertility in Ghana, showcasing the expertise of traditional healers in this domain. Traditional healers employ a comprehensive diagnostic approach that begins with gathering a detailed history of the individual, tracing back to their childhood. The unique problems that are presented by a patient will determine exactly what medication to give him. In the case of a young man who had some challenges with erectile disfunction that led to his inability to make his wife pregnant, a medication was prepared for him to drink early in the morning before meals for a week. The herbal drink consisted of bitter kola, ginger, garlic and some herbs that were not identified. The herbalist warned that no seasoning be added to the herbal preparation, lest the potency of the medication will be lost. The herbalist said “I have prescribed this medication for my patients for well over twenty year and none of them has come to say it did not work.” The herbalist complained that some of the herbs were difficult to find these days as compared to fifteen to twenty years ago. He said that in a year where the rain pattern was regular and consistent, he will harvest the herbs and keep them for the seasons that they were difficult to get.

Key observations such as the development of one testicle during childhood, the absence of morning erections in male children, and changes in young men’s interest in women are crucial factors considered during the diagnostic process (Owusu & Mensah, 2020). In traditional treatment methods, herbs and natural remedies play a vital role, with traditional healers utilizing a variety of ingredients, including animal parts like roan antelope testicles, goat parts, and bull organs. A respondent indicated that his family in Salaga, the Kuntudawura family, which has practiced herbal medicine for decades has a ‘procedure’ for dropping a testicle of a child to ensure that he is able to become fertile again. He said, “My grandfather did the procedure for well over forty years in the whole of East Gonja using some herbs and incantations to do a massage of the lower abdomen until the testicle comes into the scrotal sac using prepared herbs and the bone of a tiger or lion”.

Furthermore, lion bones, tiger nuts, and specific herbs like “gbrilga” in Gonja and Dagbanli cultures are commonly used. The efficacy of these remedies is highly esteemed, as approximately 60% of respondents reported successful treatment outcomes (Ellis, 2013). Notably, a significant majority (80%) of respondents either personally used these remedies or knew individuals who benefited from them (Table IV).

Table IV. Depends Mostly on Herbal/Traditional Healers

Response	N	%
No	55	15.6
Yes	298	84.4
Total	353	100.0

The integration of modern medicine with traditional remedies is widely embraced for the treatment and management of male infertility. Individuals seeking assistance often combine modern medical practices with herbal remedies and spiritual approaches. This holistic approach acknowledges the potential advantages of integrating diverse treatment modalities to effectively address male infertility (Adams & Boateng, 2018).

Climate Change and Male Infertility

The respondents in the study exhibit a firsthand understanding of climate change, having experienced its effects personally. They firmly believe that climate change is impacting male fertility in Ghana. The availability of herbs crucial for treating male infertility and other ailments has been significantly affected by climate change, making their procurement increasingly challenging. A respondent indicated that his father farmed in a particular place for a period of 20 years in the late 1980s and at the time, the rain pattern could be predicted. The rains started in June and ended in late October to early November: “My father was able to harvest all the herbs that he needed for the treatment of male infertility around the months that it rained. However, in the past ten to fifteen years, the rain pattern has very irregular”.

Fig. 1 illustrates a transect of the study area, clearly marking the burnt areas. This visualization is crucial in understanding how fire incidents have impacted the local environment, particularly in terms of herbal availability. The maps, compiled monthly and then annually, culminated in the creation of fire intensity maps for the districts within the different ecological zones. Notably, the burnt areas constituted 57.13% of the Guinea Savannah Zone (GSZ), indicating a significant loss of vegetation.

Fig. 1. Fire intensity map of burned areas developed for the Guinea-savanna ecological zone.

This extensive burning has profound implications for the availability of local herbs, which are essential for treating male infertility and other ailments. The destruction of these herbal resources due to fire not only disrupts the ecological balance but also poses a challenge to traditional healing practices that rely heavily on these natural remedies. The loss of herbs to fires, exacerbated by climate change, underscores the need for sustainable land management practices and the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge on herbal remedies for future generations.

The analysis of drought periods, incorporating both climatic drought (SPI) and hydrological drought (PSDI), has illuminated the fluctuating wet and dry periods that characterize the Guinea Savannah area from 1991 to 2021 (Fig. 2). This region has experienced a cycle of moderate humidity transitioning into moderate and then severe drought phases. Notably, the years of severe drought and moderate humidity each accounted for 19.4% of the study period, with moderate and high drought periods dominating the drought phases. Recent years, particularly 2018 and 2019, have seen episodes of extreme drought. These climate change-induced environmental changes have led to a significant reduction in herb growth and the destruction of herbs during floods amid prolonged droughts, affecting the availability of crucial herbs used in traditional remedies for male infertility and other diseases.

Fig. 2. Annual variation of SPI and PDSI in Guinea-Savannah between 1991 and 2021.

The fluctuating monthly rainfall anomalies, ranging from −6.2 to +4.1 mm in the Guinean savannah zone and −3.04 to +2.06 mm in the forest-savannah mosaic zone, alongside the significant decrease in annual rainfall observed in the forest-savannah mosaic zone from 2012–2020, have further exacerbated the situation (Figs. 3 and 4). These changes in weather patterns have not only affected the growth and availability of herbs but have also made some animals harder to find as they move deeper into the forest seeking refuge from the changing climate.

Fig. 3. Annual rainfall anomaly in Guinea-Savannah between 1991 and 2021.

Fig. 4. Annual temperature anomaly in Guinea-Savannah between 1991 and 2021.

The respondents’ acknowledgment of climate change’s adverse effects on traditional remedies used for treating male infertility underscores the direct connection between environmental changes and the disappearance of herbal availability. This situation poses a significant challenge to the treatment of male infertility, as the scarcity of these herbs directly impacts the efficacy and accessibility of traditional fertility treatments. The increasing occurrences of drought and erratic weather patterns, as a result of climate change, are thus indirectly contributing to the challenges faced in treating male infertility in Ghana.

To tackle male infertility challenges amidst climate change, Ghanaian society can implement lifestyle changes like reducing seasoning consumption, limiting sugar intake, quitting smoking, and moderating alcohol consumption. Furthermore, educating individuals about male reproductive health in healthcare facilities and educational institutions can enhance awareness and understanding of this issue, enabling proactive measures to address male infertility challenges within the climate change context.

Conclusion

The research paper emphasizes the importance of addressing male infertility in Ghana through various strategies such as promoting collaborations, prioritizing research, increasing training and education, encouraging innovative research methods, and integrating traditional and modern medicine. It highlights the impact of environmental factors on male infertility and the need for further research to determine effective prevention measures. Despite the changing attitudes towards male infertility in Ghanaian society, there is still a lack of education and awareness on this issue, necessitating the implementation of public education programs.

Gender roles and norms significantly influence individuals’ experiences in healthcare services, but these roles are not universal across cultures. Traditional gender roles can impact men’s willingness to seek treatment for infertility. For instance, traditional masculine roles may discourage men from seeking help for mental health issues, while traditional feminine roles could lead to discrimination against those with infertility. In Ghana, initiatives like “Look Beyond” aim to challenge gender stereotypes and promote more egalitarian arrangements beyond traditional gender-defined roles.

In addressing male infertility in Ghana, traditional beliefs attribute male infertility to factors like past lives, reproductive organ issues, bewitchment, or curses. Traditional healers play a role in treating male infertility through practices rooted in indigenous knowledge. Some traditional foods or herbs are believed to improve male fertility.

Climate change has affected agriculture in Ghana by causing erratic rain patterns, droughts, and flooding, impacting the availability of herbs used for treating diseases including male infertility. Awareness and education are crucial in combating climate change’s indirect effects on male fertility. Sustainable agriculture practices, improved air and water quality, and adoption of renewable energy solutions are recommended to mitigate climate change’s impact on male fertility.

To improve access to healthcare and support for males with infertility in Ghana, raising awareness about male infertility, training healthcare professionals, establishing specialized fertility clinics, conducting research into male infertility risk factors, and integrating male infertility into reproductive healthcare programs are essential steps. Community education, policy formulation, provider training, and support services can enhance the treatment and support of males with infertility in Ghana.

Women play a vital role in addressing male infertility by encouraging partners to seek medical treatment, promoting healthy lifestyle choices for increased fertility, raising awareness about male infertility, and providing support services.

By implementing these recommendations, Ghana can make significant strides in addressing male infertility, improving access to healthcare services, raising awareness, and ultimately supporting men affected by infertility issues.