…says smoking, drug abuse, STDs makes conception difficult
The Medical Director of Nordica Fertility Centre, Dr. Abayomi Ajayi, has advised couples trying to conceive to engage in intercourse two to three times a week to boost their chances of achieving pregnancy by the end of 2025.
Ajayi made this recommendation during a recent virtual media parley in Lagos, where he spoke on the topic, “A Guide to Having Your Own Baby in 2025.”
Citing the World Health Organisation’s guidelines, he stated that adequate sexual activity is defined as two to three times per week, making it the ideal frequency for couples hoping to conceive.
He further highlighted that conception could be challenging for couples who do not live together, emphasizing the importance of consistent intimacy.
According to Ajayi, maintaining regular intercourse could result in a 75 to 85 percent chance of conception within a year.
However, he acknowledged that some couples may require additional medical support to improve their fertility prospects.
“For women, understanding their menstrual cycle is crucial. Knowing the best times to have sex is essential. If a couple engages in intercourse two to three times a week, they likely don’t have a fertility problem. However, couples who don’t live together face challenges, particularly with the distractions of modern life,” Ajayi explained.
Read Also; FULL LIST: Addresses of NYSC orientation camps in Nigeria
Ajayi highlighted the growing concern in the UK, where young couples experience difficulties with sexual intimacy despite living together. He noted that distractions, such as smartphones, often t0ake priority over intimacy, a trend he hopes will not become widespread in Nigeria.
“In Nigeria, the primary challenge is the physical separation of couples due to work and travel commitments. It’s crucial to understand the menstrual cycle, knowing when to try for a baby and when to wait,” he added.
Ajayi further advised that tracking ovulation could enhance conception chances.
“Start tracking your cycle from the 9th day, counting from the first day of your period. Begin testing to determine your ovulation period and plan intercourse accordingly. Having sex every other day from day nine is a commonly recommended strategy.”
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, warning that holiday indulgences could lead to weight gain, which negatively impacts fertility in both men and women.
Ajayi addressed the impact of long-distance relationships on fertility, arguing that reduced sexual frequency due to physical separation contributes to declining fertility rates in Nigeria.
He also linked the phenomenon of “Japa” (emigration) to declining sexual activity and an increase in polygamy, as some men abroad, feeling financially empowered, take on additional wives.
“When one partner migrates abroad, the physical distance and logistical challenges often lead to decreased sexual activity, reducing conception chances. A case in point is a man who has lived abroad for two years; if his wife becomes pregnant while he is away, questions arise. This applies in reverse as well,” he explained.
Ajayi observed that some individuals, particularly older men, use their financial gains from living abroad to take on younger wives, contributing to changing demographic patterns and fertility dynamics.
“It’s not uncommon to see a 60-year-old man marrying a 32-year-old woman, believing they have gained wealth by converting foreign currency to Naira.”
He concluded by noting that those wishing to become parents include individuals who already understand their need for assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF, while others are just starting to explore the process.
“Studies indicate that 75 to 85 percent of those trying to conceive have no medical issues but need guidance on key factors that influence fertility.”
There are 12 million babies gotten through IVF worldwide and the success rate is determined by the clinic and the individuals involved.
He took a swipe at intending couples especially women who take to drug and those with multiple partners are at risk of not having babies as they wished.
He said that preparation is key to achieving successful IVF outcomes, Dr. Ajayi stated.
He advised prospective parents to prioritize preconception care, such as taking prenatal vitamins, preparing the uterus for implantation, and making necessary lifestyle changes.
“Smoking, unhealthy diets, and lack of preparation can reduce the chances of success. Patients should view IVF as both a therapeutic and diagnostic tool,” he added.
Many women harbour concerns about the health of babies conceived through IVF. Dr. Ajayi reassured them that advancements in technology and rigorous screening processes have significantly reduced risks.
“With proper preconception care and adherence to medical advice, IVF babies can be just as healthy as those conceived naturally.”
