Fertility Expert: Women More Open to Discussing Issues Than Men
A leading fertility expert, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru, states that women are more open than men when discussing fertility problems. He made this statement at an event organized by Lions Club International District 404B2 Nigeria to mark International Women’s Month.
The event’s theme was ‘Break the Bias.’ During his talk, the endocrinology professor noted that men often live in denial about fertility issues. He also cited public ignorance as a key reason for rising infertility rates in Nigeria.
Ignorance and Denial Are Major Barriers
“When it comes to fertility issues, many Nigerians are ignorant,” said Prof. Ashiru. “This makes infertility a major national issue. While ignorance is a problem, I find that men often live in denial. They don’t like to admit they have issues. Instead, they push the blame onto women. Unfortunately, society also attributes fertility problems to women.”
The professor clarified the actual statistics. “According to research, both men and women have a 50% contribution to infertility. Either partner could be responsible.”
Environmental and Lifestyle Toxins Cause Infertility
Prof. Ashiru identified several environmental and lifestyle factors that cause infertility. These include toxins, poor eating habits, stress, and specific habits.
He provided detailed examples:
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Driving Barefoot: “Some women find it easy to drive barefoot. However, the lining of many car pedals contains antimony. This substance is proven to be toxic to embryos. Many patients experience miscarriages after IVF until we remove this toxin. Only then can they maintain a pregnancy.”
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Mercury in Fish: “Mercury is present in large fish and stockfish. Consuming them is harmful.”
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Common Pollutants: “Fumigation, oil spills, cheap lipstick, and pesticides also damage reproductive health. These toxins can affect a pregnant woman, her unborn child, and even future generations.”
A Call to Break the Bias
Earlier at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Lola Akande, urged Nigerian women to actively break societal biases. She advised women to emulate notable female leaders. Her examples included the WTO Director-General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Fidelity Bank CEO, Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; and former First Bank Chairman, Mrs. Ibukun Awosika.
