BRIDGING THE GAP: ROLE OF COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSES IN EARLY DETECTION AND MANAGEMENT OF INFERTILITY IN RURAL POPULATIONS

Abstract  Infertility is a major reproductive health concern affecting approximately 10–15% of couples worldwide, with rural populations experiencing a disproportionate burden due to limited healthcare access, socioculturSal stigma, and lack of awareness. Community health nursing plays a vital role in bridging this gap by facilitating early detection, prevention, and management of infertility through community-based interventions. This article examines the multidimensional role of community health nurses, including screening, health education, counseling, referral, and follow-up care in rural settings. It further explores barriers such as myths, gender bias, financial limitations, and inadequate infrastructure that delay diagnosis and treatment. The findings suggest that strengthening community health nursing services and integrating infertility care into primary healthcare systems can significantly improve reproductive health outcomes.  Keywords: Infertility, Community Health Nursing, Rural Health, Early Detection, Reproductive Care.