Aim: This study aimed to determine whether the weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI) affected infertility in women of childbearing age in the United States.
Methods: In this study, a database from the 2013 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) was used. We analyzed 3374 participants' data cross-sectionally. The survey used WWI and fertility status as independent and dependent variables. To determine the effect of WWI, an analysis of the independent relationship between WWI and infertility was conducted using weighted multivariable logistic regression and a generalized additive mode (GAM). A smooth curve fitting test was used to calculate whether there was a linear association between WWI and the incidence rate of infertility, as well as subgroup analyses and interaction tests.
Results: The prevalence of infertility was 10.19% among 3374 participants. Higher WWI quartiles were associated with higher infertility rates. Based on a fully adjusted model, the effects of WWI on fertility were positive (odds ratio = 1.39, 95% confidence interval: 1.17-1.66). As a result of smooth curve fitting, the association was linear across the entire WWI. Different characteristics were associated with different risks of infertility in subgroup analysis.
Conclusion: Among women of reproductive age in the United States, WWI levels were positively associated with infertility. This relationship needs to be confirmed by further studies.
Keywords: NHANES; female infertility; obesity; weight-adjusted-waist index.
© 2023 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.