Women Who Drive Barefoot or Eat Stockfish at Risk of Infertility, Says Expert

The President of the Academy of Medicine Specialties of Nigeria (AMSN) and consultant reproductive endocrinologist, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru, has warned that certain everyday habits, such as driving barefoot and consuming stockfish, may increase the risk of infertility, especially among women.

Speaking at the 30th anniversary lecture of the Medical Art Center in Lagos, Prof. Ashiru highlighted that prolonged exposure to toxins from car pedals, large fish with high mercury content, and other environmental pollutants can negatively affect reproductive health. He explained that antimony, a toxic element found in car pedals, has been linked to miscarriages among women undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Similarly, mercury, commonly found in stockfish and large fish, can also contribute to fertility issues.

Beyond these factors, he pointed out that lifestyle choices such as smoking, poor diet, excessive use of lipstick, and exposure to chemicals from oil spills, pesticides, and insecticides could further impair fertility in both men and women. He emphasized that these toxins could even impact future generations, affecting not just the mother but also her unborn child.

Prof. Ashiru, a pioneer of IVF treatment in sub-Saharan Africa and President of the Africa Reproductive Care Society, noted that infertility is not limited to women and urged both men and women to be mindful of activities that may harm their reproductive health. He called for increased awareness and education on reproductive health, suggesting that such topics should be introduced into school curriculums across Africa.

During the lecture, themed “More Joy to Families Through Reproductive Assisted Technology,” he revealed that around 2,500 babies are born annually in Nigeria through Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), particularly IVF. While acknowledging that ART may not work for all couples, he highlighted the success of his Medical Art Center, which has facilitated the birth of over 3,000 babies in its 30 years of operation. He also noted that there are approximately 170 fertility clinics in Nigeria, with only about 20 officially registered, and that the country has become a hub for medical tourism in fertility treatment.

Prof. Ashiru estimated that between 7,000 and 10,000 IVF cycles are carried out annually in Nigeria and that the success rate of infertility treatment globally stands at 40%. However, he expressed optimism that advancements in technology would further improve outcomes.

The event also featured commendations from medical experts, including Prof. Emeritus Osato Giwa-Osagie and Dr. Sonny Kuku, who praised Prof. Ashiru’s contributions to reproductive medicine and medical education in Nigeria. The celebration concluded with awards presented to dedicated staff members of the Medical Art Center, including the medical director, Dr. Mojisola Aderommu, for their commitment to the institution’s vision.