Measuring Fertility Health Knowledge in University Students: Development and Testing of a Survey Tool

Abstract

Background and purpose: Few surveys address fertility health in both men and women. This report details development of a fertility knowledge assessment tool for clinical and research settings that would sensitize young adults to habits that would promote healthy fertility.

Methods: A pilot study (N = 31) followed by a larger study of students at three schools (N = 465, 335, & 375) at a midwestern university using a new 30-item survey.

Results: Face and content validity of the survey tool were determined by a panel of experts. Internal consistency and reliability were acceptable for a new instrument (α = .81 for the total group; α = .80 for each school.

Conclusions: This instrument is a valid and reliable short screening tool that can be used to assess knowledge of fertility and possibly open discussions about fertility self-care.

Keywords: fertility; fertility knowledge; health knowledge; health promotion; lifestyle modification; preconception health.