Lagos hospital solicits regulation of IVF

The Bridge Clinic in Lagos is advocating for the regulation of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in Nigeria.

During a walk commemorating World IVF Week, Sunny Ekhalume, Managing Director of The Bridge Clinic, expressed concerns that numerous fertility clinics in Nigeria fall short of meeting the necessary standards.

On Tuesday, a statement announced that staff members of Bridge Clinic participated in an awareness walk in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Ikeja.

The MD said, “Most important is the need for regulation. Currently, there is no serious regulation around fertility management in Nigeria, and implementing such regulations is very important.

“We have over 100 fertility clinics in Nigeria now, but many of them do not meet the required standards and do not adhere to the ethics and practices expected. For example, you will see some IVF clinics celebrating the birth of six babies at once. At Bridge Clinic, we will not transfer more than two embryos at a time, prioritising the health of the mother and the babies.

“In other parts of the world, clinics will not even transfer more than one embryo, and that is the standard we aim to achieve.”

He also noted that government support is vital to educate the public and reduce the stigma surrounding fertility and IVF, highlighting the need for significant investment in the entire healthcare system, not just fertility clinics.

Umhor Akinselure, a counselor at the clinic, also addressed the gathering, explaining that the primary objective of the fertility walk was to raise awareness and promote understanding of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

She said, “The IVF’s journey with assisted reproductive technology spans 46 years, though, in our country, we are pioneers, marking our 25th anniversary this year. It’s been 20 years since our first successful birth. It’s time to fully embrace this technology. Let’s encourage those struggling with infertility to seek assistance without hesitation. Around the world, people are increasingly seeking help sooner rather than later.

“Today, my call to everyone facing this challenge is clear: take the right steps, seek help, and if immediate access isn’t possible, start planning for it.”