Infertility affects both men and women equally. Men can also be affected by infertility, as emphasized by medical experts from the Merck Foundation.
In collaboration with these experts, female journalists from the Association Rwandaise des Femmes des Médias (ARFEM) attended the Merck Foundation Health Media Training organized for East African Countries (Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania & Uganda) on July 20, 2023, via video conference.
Dr. Paul Kamau Koigi, a Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist from Nairobi Hospital, pointed out that untreated infection is one of the causes of infertility. He stated, “In Sub-Saharan Africa, infection is the cause of infertility in up to 85% of women seeking infertility care, compared to 33% worldwide. It’s essential to have regular check-ups and see the doctor early if you feel unwell.”
Dr. Koigi also mentioned strategies for women to increase the chances of becoming pregnant, such as moderate exercise, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, limiting caffeine, and managing stress.
He emphasized, “Men are reminded that they are crucial to reproduction, but they can also be central to infertility problems. Therefore, it is necessary to support your wife by sharing the treatment journey together, as infertility affects men and women equally.”
Dr. Francisca Tshitenge Bwalya, a Consultant Psychiatrist & Head of Clinical Care at Chainama Hills Hospital and National Mental Health Coordinator-Merck Foundation Alumni in Zambia, explained that infertility is a reproductive system disease, defined as the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.
She added that this condition affects both males and females, estimating that 186 million people worldwide, including 48.5 million couples globally and 10 million in Sub-Saharan Africa, are affected.
Dr. Bwalya highlighted the high prevalence of infertility in some West, Central, and Southern African countries, with low prevalence in most East African countries. She discussed various causes of infertility for females, including tubal disorders, abortion, surgery, uterine disorders (fibroids, congenital), ovarian issues (polycystic ovarian syndrome, hormonal disorders), and external factors like smoking, alcohol, obesity, and pollution.
“For males, causes included obstruction of the tract (injuries, infection), hormonal disorders (testosterone, cancers), testicular failure to produce sperm (varicoceles, chemotherapy), and abnormal sperm (shape, movement).” She added.
Dr. Bwalya also highlighted social impacts of infertility, such as violence, stigma, divorce, and mood disorders, emphasizing that social and psychological distress related to infertility is high in developing countries.
During the training, participants were reminded of the media’s significant role in influencing awareness, educating, and guiding on available services to address challenges in the availability and access of infertility services. Additionally, the media plays a crucial role in influencing health policies.
