By Dami Atiba-Sogules
In Nigeria, the journey to parenthood is often seen as a rite of passage—expected, even demanded. But for many couples, conceiving isn’t automatic. Infertility is more common than we like to admit, yet still deeply misunderstood and rarely discussed. Knowing when to seek fertility help—and what to expect when you do—can make a world of difference.
The Silent Struggle: How Common Is Infertility in Nigeria?
Infertility affects roughly one in five couples in Nigeria.
According to studies, the prevalence ranges from 20% to 25%, which is significantly higher than the global average of around 10%.
In about 40–50% of cases, the issue lies with the woman; in another 30–40%, with the man; and in some, both partners.
Yet, it’s women who often bear the brunt of the blame.Sadly, many suffer in silence, hiding their pain under layers of shame and societal pressure.
In a culture where womanhood is often equated with motherhood, infertility can feel like a personal failure, rather than a medical condition needing attention.
When Should You Seek Help?
It’s not uncommon to hear stories of couples “waiting on God” or trying for 5–10 years before seeing a doctor.
But medically, that delay can reduce the chances of success.Here’s a practical guideline:
*If you’re under 35, seek help after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse without conception.
*If you’re over 35, six months is long enough to wait.
*Seek help immediately if you’ve had repeated miscarriages, irregular periods, a known health issue (like fibroids, PCOS, or STIs), or male fertility concerns like poor semen quality.
Infertility is a medical issue, not a spiritual punishment. Getting clarity early can save time, emotions, and even money.
What to Expect from Fertility Treatment in Nigeria
The landscape for fertility treatment in Nigeria has improved, especially in urban centers. Options range from basic interventions to advanced assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
Some common options include:
*Fertility medications: Often the first step for women with ovulation problems.Drugs can stimulate ovulation and increase chances of conception.
*Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A less invasive method where sperm is inserted directly into the uterus during ovulation.
*In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF):The most common and advanced form of ART in Nigeria, involving egg retrieval, fertilization in a lab, and embryo transfer.
Success rates vary depending on age, clinic standards, and underlying health issues.
Unlike in some Western countries, Nigeria largely lacks government support or insurance coverage for fertility treatment, so couples often pay out-of-pocket.
Cultural & Spiritual Roadblocks
Beyond the medical, there are cultural and spiritual layers to infertility that are uniquely Nigerian.In many homes, infertility is seen through a supernatural lens.
Couples may try churches, traditional healers, and herbal remedies before ever considering a fertility clinic.
Some are even told that they are under a curse, or need to “break generational cycles” before they can conceive.While faith is an important part of many Nigerians’ lives (mine included),
it shouldn’t delay medical help. I’ve seen couples lose precious years to misinformation and fear—time they could have used to explore successful medical options.
There’s also a persistent stigma, especially for women. From being called barren to being excluded from family discussions, women often suffer in silence, even when the medical diagnosis points to male infertility.
It’s time we shift this narrative. Infertility is not a woman’s issue—it’s a couple’s issue, and it deserves compassion, not condemnation.
Breaking the Silence: Hope and Healing
Thankfully, awareness is slowly growing. Social media, advocacy groups, and some brave public figures are helping to de-stigmatize infertility.
More fertility clinics are opening, and more Nigerians are speaking up.Support groups—both online and offline—are providing spaces for couples to share stories, ask questions, and find encouragement.
These conversations are breaking the silence and helping people realize: you are not alone.
Final Thoughts,
Fertility is a sensitive, deeply personal topic. But if you’ve been trying to conceive without success, you deserve answers, not assumptions.
The earlier you seek help, the better your chances of finding a solution that works for you.And while treatments can be costly and emotionally demanding, there is hope—and there are people walking this road too.You are not cursed. You are not broken.
You are not less than. You are simply in need of help—and help is available.
Dami Atiba-Sogules is a reproductive health expert, embryologist, and advocate for fertility awareness in Africa.With over 14 years of experience, she is passionate about helping families navigate their fertility journey with science, compassion, and dignity.
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