By Dr. Adedamola Adeogun
Infertility is not a woman’s problem alone, yet across Nigeria, cultural beliefs and stigma still place the blame almost entirely on women. This silence and misdirected blame are destroying marriages and delaying solutions.
The medical truth is clear
Infertility affects both genders equally. Male factors, low sperm count, poor sperm movement, and untreated infections account for nearly half of the cases, while female factors include irregular ovulation, blocked tubes, fibroids, and age-related decline in egg quality.
Diagnosis is simpler than many think.
Semen analysis, pelvic ultrasound, hormone tests, and tubal studies are widely available in Nigerian hospitals. With these, most causes can be identified at a relatively low cost.
Treatment works.
Many couples only need lifestyle adjustments, infection treatment, or ovulation medications. Others may require surgery or assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF. The tragedy is that many delay care for years, spending time and money on unproven remedies.
The emotional toll is heavy. Stigma, secrecy, and community pressure deepen the suffering. What couples need is support, counselling, and encouragement, not judgment. Men must also step forward for testing and treatment; infertility is a shared challenge, not a solitary cross for women.
Nigerian men must overcome their ego and misconception that male factors contributing to infertility are nonexistent. Both spouses must present themselves for all necessary investigations to achieve their desired outcome.
The way forward is clear
Break the silence, replace myths with facts, and expand affordable fertility services across Nigeria. Infertility is not a verdict; it is a medical condition with solutions. With early care and community support, hope is possible for countless families yearning for children.
Dr. Charles Adedamola Adeogun is a General Medical Practitioner