By Suleiman Tajudeen
CITIZENS COMPASS— For many Nigerian couples, the inability to have a child is one of life’s most painful challenges. In our culture, children are seen as blessings, heritage, and old-age security. Yet infertility affects millions of Nigerians.
The good news is this: Infertility is a medical condition, not a curse. It is common, treatable, and often preventable. This article explains what infertility is, why it is increasing in Nigeria, and what couples can do.
The World Health Organization defines infertility as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sex (WHO, 2023).
Types:
Primary infertility: Couples who have never had a child.
Secondary infertility: Couples who have had at least one child but cannot conceive again.
It is important to note that infertility affects both men and women. About 40% of cases are due to female factors, 30-40% to male factors, and the rest to both or unknown causes.
Brief history
In ancient times across Africa, Europe, and Asia, childlessness was blamed entirely on women. It often led to stigma, divorce, or polygamy.
In 1978, the birth of the first “test-tube baby” in the UK changed everything. Today we have IVF and other treatments.
In Nigeria, fertility care has grown rapidly. Major cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Enugu now have accredited IVF centers. Yet myths and silence still prevent many from seeking help early.
How common is infertility?
Globally: One in six people experience infertility in their lifetime (about 580 million people according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
In Nigeria: Estimates reveal that one in four couples in some regions struggle with infertility. That’s about 8-10 million Nigerians.
The burden is higher in Sub-Saharan Africa because of untreated infections. In Nigeria, the social pressure is also heavier, especially on women.
Major causes of infertility
To be continued…
For questions or medical consultations, contact Dr. Suleiman Tajudeen, CEO and Director of Clinical Psychology, Clear Mind Psychological Consult, Km 15, Badagry Expressway, Ojo, Lagos. +234 803 402 4457
