Dr. Esther Agbozo Yesutor, a medical consultant at EYA Medical, has urged society to stop stigmatizing women for infertility, stressing that the inability to conceive is a shared challenge that often affects both partners in a relationship. Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show, Dr. Yesutor emphasized that infertility is not solely a women’s issue and can frequently stem from male-related factors.
“Infertility refers to the inability of a couple to conceive after a year of regular unprotected sex without contraceptives,” Dr. Yesutor explained. She further clarified that the condition can result from challenges faced by either partner, breaking the misconception that it is primarily a female issue.
There are two types of infertility she explained:
Primary infertility, which affects couples who have never achieved pregnancy.
Secondary infertility, which occurs when couples who have had a child in the past struggle to conceive again.
Dr. Yesutor highlighted that infertility in men can be caused by issues such as:
- Low sperm production or quality.
- Physical trauma or infections.
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and stress.
For women, she noted that challenges such as ovulation disorders, fibroids, and stress could contribute to infertility.
Dr. Yesutor underscored the importance of a thorough investigation before diagnosing infertility. “Sperm analysis is usually the first step,” she said, noting its critical role in determining if the male partner has sufficient and healthy sperm for conception. The doctor also encouraged couples to explore alternative options such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or adoption, offering hope to those struggling with infertility.
She concluded by advocating for an end to societal blame, stating, “Infertility is a sensitive issue and a shared responsibility. Reducing the stigma around it will foster better support for couples navigating this journey.”
Dr. Yesutor’s appeal serves as a reminder of the need for empathy and understanding in addressing infertility, urging society to focus on support rather than blame.
Source: GBCNews