Have you ever stopped to wonder why some pregnancies go so smoothly while others seem dogged by endless wahala? The answer, experts reveal, might just lie in what happens before conception even begins.
According to leading reproductive health specialists across Nigeria, embracing preconception care isn’t just one fancy health buzzword—it could be the secret weapon for women hoping to enjoy a safe pregnancy and healthy baby. If you think this is mere hospital talk, think again: early health checks reportedly slash the risk of pregnancy complications and maternal deaths, especially in Africa, where health systems can be stretched thinner than pap water.
Why Is Preconception Care Such a Big Deal?
It sounds simple, but still so many Nigerian women only start thinking about their health when that positive test shakes their world. “Many women go into pregnancy carrying untreated issues like hormonal imbalances or undiagnosed infections,” shares Dr. Abayomi Ajayi, Medical Director of Nordica Fertility Centre in Lagos. “These hidden troubles can quietly affect a baby’s development and even threaten the mother’s life.”
Imagine trying to build a house on shaky ground. That’s essentially what’s happening when health conditions aren’t addressed before pregnancy. Dr. Ajayi and fellow experts stressed this at a recent event unveiling two crucial books on infertility—What You Should Know to Escape Infertility and Why Some Men Shoot Blank Shots—written by journalist Ms. Uche Akolisa, shining an unprecedented spotlight on an issue sometimes considered taboo in our community.
The ABCs of Prepping for Pregnancy in Nigeria
So, how does one “prepare” the body for pregnancy? Let’s break it down in a way that doesn’t require a medical degree:
- Get Checked Early: Visit your clinic to screen for underlying health problems—diabetes, thyroid, STIs, the works. “It’s better to clear the road before you start the journey,” as the Igbos would say.
- Eat for Strength: Good nutrition is not about buying imported supplements. It’s about balanced, homegrown food—think ugwu, beans, fish, fruits. No need for show; local is gold.
- Move That Body: A little exercise clears the cobwebs, keeps weight in check, and preps your system for the nine-month marathon. No be Olympic race, just enough to get your heart pumping.
- Stay Away from Bad Habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol, and even unprotected sex can derail your dream. Take it from medical experts: prevention beats cure any day.
- Protect Your Mental Health: Trying to conceive in Nigeria, with all the noise from family and society, is not beans. Seek support and speak your truth; mental balance helps your body welcome new life.
- Vaccinations Matter: According to World Health Organization (WHO), some vaccines offer protection for mother and baby. Discuss with your provider first.
How Much Does Hospital Quality Matter?
“Don’t let price be the only reason for choosing a hospital,” Dr. Ajayi cautions. “Some people compare prices for a caesarean online—meanwhile, the hospital might not even have a working incubator. Cheap isn’t always best, but the most expensive may just be packaging.” According to him, asking questions, visiting in person, and watching how staff talk to you can tell you if a place is worth trusting with your future. As our elders say, once you sense palava, no be by force to stay—waka comot!
Fertility Struggles: Facing the Shocking Truth
Here’s what hits home for many: Nigeria’s awareness of preconception care is alarmingly low. It’s been reported that most women only seek help after the problems have landed like a stubborn visitor. According to Dr. Ajayi, “If you’re 40 and newly pregnant, your risk of miscarriage is higher than seeing a live birth, whether it’s natural or IVF. It sounds harsh, but that’s what the data says.”
This isn’t to shame anyone, but to arm women and couples with real knowledge. After all, fertility battles are not just medical—they cut across social, financial, and emotional lines. “Infertility can break relationships, drive people to the edge, or even push someone into depression,” Ajayi added. “Communities must support struggling couples without pointing fingers. Sometimes, it’s just fate, not fault.”
Inside Story: Diet, Age, and the Changing Face of Reproductive Health in Nigeria
Another fascinating insight came from Dr. Joseph Akinde, a seasoned consultant gynaecologist. “There’s no single magic food that boosts fertility for everyone. What works is a consistent, balanced diet—one that fits our culture and pocket,” he explained. He also warned: delaying marriage comes with biological realities, as a woman’s fertility declines with age, which has been documented globally by organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Author and journalist Ms. Uche Akolisa highlighted that “Fertility, sexual, and reproductive health deserve much more attention, especially with infertility on the rise.” She urged young people to be aware of their fertility status early so they can make wiser marriage and life decisions. Her advice? “The ABC of sexual health—Abstinence, Being faithful, and using Condoms—isn’t just about avoiding disease, but can also safeguard fertility.”
How Does This Affect Nigeria’s Families and Future?
The rise of infertility speaks volumes in a country where children aren’t just blessings—they’re the pride of every home. Social pressure can be overpowering, but ignorance, coupled with late diagnoses, only deepens the struggle for many couples. Sometimes, the stigma attached to “childlessness” can be heavier than the problem itself—even though many cases have underlying, treatable causes.
Men are not left out of the equation. According to medical specialists, male factor infertility is just as significant, but too often overlooked due to cultural expectations. Both partners need to go for testing, not just the woman alone.
What’s the Way Forward: Breaking the Silence and Acting Early
Globally, the World Health Organization identifies infertility as a major public health issue, with estimates suggesting that up to 15% of couples worldwide are affected. In sub-Saharan Africa, WHO further highlights that lack of access to fertility services exacerbates the challenge—leading to stress, stigma, and even financial ruin for some families. In Nigeria, experts argue that increased awareness, destigmatization, and improved access to evidence-based care are critical steps to reversing the trend.
- Communities should offer support, not judgment
- Both men and women need education and early assessment
- Healthcare providers must prioritize ethical, honest engagement
- Government policy can close gaps in funding and awareness
The verdict? Preconception care is no longer a “nice-to-have”; it’s a must-have for anyone planning to start a family in Nigeria’s fast-changing landscape. Early checks, honest conversations, and supportive communities could spell the difference between heartbreak and hope.
Conclusion: Making Preconception Care the New Normal
So, if you’re thinking about parenthood, remember: it’s better to clear the bush path before entering the farm, as our people say. Don’t wait until problems knock at your door. Safeguard your future by making informed choices before pregnancy begins.
Do you think our communities are doing enough to support couples struggling with infertility? What steps would you add to make preconception care the new normal among Nigerians? Drop your thoughts below and share your experiences. Don’t keep this knowledge to yourself—spread the word for healthier Nigerian families!
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