Group seeks to make IVF more affordable in Nigeria

In response to problems of the high cost of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in the country, fertility experts under the aegis of the Nigeria Fertility Society (NFS) in collaboration with the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS) are seeking ways of provide low-cost IVF to all Nigerians who require it.

Speaking during the first ever international workshop on “Assisted Conception” Chairman of the NFS Scientific Committee, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru, in his paper entitled “The State of ART of Assisted Conception and the possibility of low - cost IVF in Nigeria” said IVF has come to stay in Nigeria. He noted that Nigeria has recorded great successes from IVF and that presently there are 12 IVF centers in the country observed that ART has recorded an overall success of 30 per cent pregnancy.

His words: “About 12,000 babies have been born with the aid of this technology worldwide but the very pertinent question in all of these is how many Nigerians without privilege can really enjoy it.” He recalled that between January 1995 and March 2005 the procedures and protocols for IVF programme set up and patient cares were evaluated and the protocols and procedures that can be cost saving were examined.

In his own paper entitled, “How realistic is low-cost IVF in an Unindustrialized sub region” Vice President of the NFS, Dr. John Esangbdo said IVF treatment may become widely acceptable only if third party providers understand the inseparability of diseases peculiar to women’s well being and infertility.

NFS President, Prof. Osato Giwa Osagie in his submission, urged government to establish public sector IVF units in selected hospitals as well as set up foundations and support groups to assist clients while encouraging all practitioners to offer discounted cycles to selected bonafide clients with financial constraints.