A consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Prof. Adebayo Adeniyi, has warned that untreated or poorly managed infections in women can lead to infertility, especially due to fallopian tube blockages.
Speaking on Saturday in Ado Ekiti, Prof. Adeniyi, who is the Medical Director of Olives Fertility Centre, noted that infections are one of the most common causes of infertility among women, particularly through the damage they cause to the reproductive system.
According to him, “The most frequent cause of blocked fallopian tubes is infection, particularly pelvic infections that have not been properly treated. These blockages make it nearly impossible for women to conceive naturally.”
He emphasized the importance of seeking prompt and professional medical care, instead of relying on self-medication or over-the-counter drugs.
“A lot of women, when they notice symptoms like unusual vaginal discharge, go to chemists or buy antibiotics without proper diagnosis. This often leads to incomplete treatment, worsening the condition,” he said.
Prof. Adeniyi made the remarks while discussing the recent IVF success at the centre involving a 60-year-old woman, highlighting the importance of advanced reproductive technologies for women who struggle with fertility issues.
He explained that In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is typically considered a last resort after a couple has unsuccessfully tried to conceive naturally for at least two years.
“In many cases, we can diagnose and correct the issue. But for some, natural conception is no longer possible, and that’s where assisted reproduction comes in,” he said.
Commenting on prevention, Prof. Adeniyi identified unprotected sex as the leading pathway for infections that later cause reproductive complications.
“Infections often referred to colloquially as ‘toilet diseases’ are in fact sexually transmitted pelvic infections. The fallopian tubes are very narrow and easily damaged by these infections,” he said.
While abstinence is the ideal preventive measure, he acknowledged that it may not be realistic for everyone.
“That’s why we advocate for condom use. Condoms offer dual protection, they prevent both infections and unwanted pregnancies. Unfortunately, studies show that around 80% of unmarried young people do not use condoms regularly.”
The Olives Fertility Centre, according to Adeniyi, has helped bring over 123 babies into the world through IVF since October 2019, including 20 sets of twins and 8 sets of triplets.
He also shared that the centre often refers pregnant patients to trusted hospitals closer to their homes for delivery, once conception is successful.
Supporting this call to early fertility checks, another expert, Dr Jaiyeoba Adeyemi, recently advised couples trying to conceive for over a year without success to seek evaluation.
He particularly stressed that women aged 35 and above should not delay, as fertility significantly declines with age.
“Women in their mid to late 30s require more urgent medical attention compared to younger women,” Dr Adeyemi stated.
“Timely intervention is crucial.”
