By Doris Obinna
Experts at the Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency maiden edition of fertility awareness have expressed concern over the alarming rate of infertility among couples. They, at the fertility awareness proffer other options to combating the challenges of infertility.
The event with theme: “Exploring Alternative Options to Infertility,” held at the Eko Hotels and Suits, Victoria Island, Lagos, underscored a significant leap in its mission to reduce infertility rates with a highlight of free in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments to 15 women across the states, which cost at least N6 million per IVF.
Speaking, Medical Director, Emobile Specialist Hospital, Dr Ugwueke T. N, said, infertility is a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.
According to him, infertility is a global health issue affecting millions of people of reproductive age worldwide. “Available data suggests that globally one in six people around 17.5 per cent experience infertility in their lifetime.”
Reiterating the importance of IVF, he disclosed that couple with male partner with poor sperm quality and azoospermia, couple with long duration of infertility, female partner with uterine abnormalities and absent uterus, female partner with ovarian abnormality or suffers endometriosis can consider going for IVF.
“Also, couple with permanent contraception for example, vasectomy and tubal ligation, female partner of advanced age, female partner with tubal abnormality and sex selection and management of genetic diseases. IVF is one of several techniques available to help people with fertility problems have a baby,” he explained.
Human Resources expert, Mr. Alufa-Wellington Olalekan on the overview of the Lagos State adoption law stated that adoption is a beneficial alternative to overcoming infertility.
He said: “According to the Lagos State Child’s Rights Law, adopted children must be monitored until they reach the age of 18. Essential requirements such as: birth certificates, marriage certificates of the adopters, and medical certificates must be provided by intending couples.
Providing an overview of the Lagos State adoption process, from submitting the adoption application form to the legalisation for adoption at the family court, Olalekan stressed its viability as an alternative to biological parenthood and encouraged couples to consider the option.
Also, President Singles and Married Int’l Fellowship Outreach, Pastor Chioma Ibezim, commending the agency for the feat, said the gesture extended to the beneficiaries is life transforming.
Commenting on surrogacy from the Biblical perspective, Ibezim stated that surrogacy is not a sin and backed it up with examples, one of which she cited was the conception of Mary the mother of Jesus Christ.
On her part, founder, Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency, Olaronke Thaddeus, said: “This remarkable initiative not only alleviates the financial burden associated with infertility treatments but also stands as a beacon of hope for women struggling with infertility.
“It also marked the formal establishment of the Olaronke Thaddeus Foundation, aimed at expanding the charity arm of the Meet Surrogate Mothers Agency.”
“Over the years, the agency has silently supported various charitable causes, such as providing free IVF treatments, paying school fees and supporting widows,” she added.
Other attendees at the event includes, a representative of the Chief of Staff, Lagos State, Mr. Kadri Semiu, and the agency’s ambassador, May Yul Edochie.
Also, an actress, Abiola Adebayo, sharing her personal journey with infertility and surrogacy, said:
“Infertility should not limit women from having children. I opted for surrogacy after struggling with infertility, and it brought me immense fulfillment. So, I encourage women facing similar challenges to explore other options.”