Sunny Ekhalume, Managing Director of Bridge Clinic, has underscored the critical need to dismantle the stigma associated with In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and fertility treatments in Nigeria. Speaking at a fertility awareness walk in Lagos, held in honor of World IVF Day, Ekhalume emphasized the importance of normalizing IVF and addressing the various factors that contribute to infertility.
Ekhalume highlighted the necessity for couples to assess their fertility status either before marriage or early in their relationship. He recommended that couples seek the expertise of a fertility specialist if they face challenges conceiving after one year of marriage.
Infertility, according to Ekhalume, can stem from genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. He advocated for preventive measures such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, engaging in regular exercise, and following a balanced diet.
The Managing Director also called for increased government regulation in fertility management, pointing out the current lack of formal guidelines in the country. He mentioned that his clinic was among the pioneers in Nigeria to achieve successful births through surrogacy, a viable option for women who cannot carry a pregnancy due to medical conditions.
Ekhalume elaborated on various causes of infertility, noting that genetic issues and male factors, such as low sperm count or azoospermia (absence of sperm), can play significant roles. He explained that these issues might arise from untreated infections or conditions like varicocele, where excess veins in the scrotum raise sperm temperature, rendering them nonviable. Additionally, undescended testicles can affect male fertility.
For females, Ekhalume cited hormonal imbalances, fibroids, and complications from improperly conducted abortions as potential causes of infertility. He emphasized that both men and women need to be aware of these issues to seek appropriate treatment and support.
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