In Nigeria and many parts of the world, infertility is often seen as a woman’s issue. Women are frequently blamed, shamed, and even rejected when couples face challenges with conception. At Well-Life Foundation Abuja, we are working to change this harmful narrative.
❌ The Blame Game: Why Women Are Often Targeted
In many homes and communities, a woman is expected to prove her worth through motherhood. If pregnancy doesn’t happen quickly, the blame often falls squarely on her — regardless of the actual medical cause.
This deeply rooted gender bias is not only unfair, but it also delays proper diagnosis and treatment for both partners.
🧪 The Medical Truth About Infertility
Infertility affects both men and women — often equally:
- 30–40% of infertility cases are due to female factors
- **30–40% are due to male factors
- The rest are combined or unexplained
Causes of male infertility may include:
- Low sperm count or motility
- Hormonal imbalances
- Testicular injury or infection
- Lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, stress)
Ignoring the male partner in investigations only delays the solution.
🧠 Other Harmful Myths We Must Let Go Of
- “A real woman should get pregnant immediately after marriage.”
👉 Fertility is not automatic — it varies greatly from person to person. - “A man can’t be infertile if he’s had children before.”
👉 Male fertility can change due to age, illness, or environmental factors. - “Only herbal remedies can solve infertility.”
👉 Many cases require medical diagnosis and evidence-based treatments. - “IVF means you are not a ‘real’ parent.”
👉 Every path to parenthood is valid and should be respected.
🫂 Breaking the Stigma Together
We need to build a culture of support, not shame.
- Encourage joint medical evaluations for couples
- Speak up against stigma in religious and cultural settings
- Promote male involvement in reproductive health conversations
Infertility is not a personal failure — it is a medical condition that deserves compassion, not blame.
💬 Final Word
Let’s stop pointing fingers and start offering support. Men and women deserve equal understanding, empathy, and access to care. At Well-Life Foundation, we are here to walk with you on this journey — together.