How Poorly Treated Infections Can Stop Women from Getting Pregnant – Gynaecologist

Expert warns against self-medication, highlights IVF success stories and preventive measures for women

Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Prof. Adebayo Adeniyi, has cautioned that untreated or poorly treated infections remain one of the leading causes of infertility in women, often resulting in blocked fallopian tubes that hinder conception.

Prof. Adeniyi, who is also the Medical Director of Olives Fertility Centre in Ado Ekiti, explained that pelvic infections, often contracted through unprotected sexual intercourse, can silently damage a woman’s reproductive system if left untreated.

He gave the warning while addressing journalists in Ado Ekiti on Saturday, September 20, 2025, during a briefing on the successful delivery of a 60-year-old woman who conceived through In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) at the centre.

“IVF is a last resort for couples who have tried naturally for two years without success,” Adeniyi said. “Infections are the most common cause of blocked fallopian tubes, and when not properly treated, they can permanently affect a woman’s ability to conceive.”

How Infections Cause Infertility: According to the fertility expert, many women unknowingly contract pelvic infections—commonly mistaken for so-called “toilet diseases”—through unsafe sexual practices. The first signs may include abnormal vaginal discharge, but in many cases, the damage progresses quietly.

He stressed that self-medication is a dangerous practice, as women often purchase drugs from pharmacies without proper medical evaluation, which may only partially treat the infection or worsen complications.

“Women with suspected infections should seek hospital treatment where proper investigations and complete treatment can be administered,” he advised.

Prevention and Safe Practices: Prof. Adeniyi urged young people and couples to prioritize preventive measures. While sexual abstinence before marriage remains the surest protection, he acknowledged it may not always be realistic.

Instead, he advocated for consistent condom use, which he described as “a double protection against both sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies.” Sadly, he noted that nearly 80% of unmarried youths in Nigeria do not use condoms during sexual intercourse.

IVF Success and Fertility Statistics: Since its establishment in October 2019, Olives Fertility Centre has facilitated the birth of 123 babies, including 20 sets of twins and 8 sets of triplets through IVF procedures.

Prof. Adeniyi explained that after conception via IVF, many patients are referred to hospitals closer to their residences to ease the stress of traveling for delivery.

“We work with other specialists nationwide to ensure mothers and babies receive the best care possible,” he said, adding that patients come from within and outside Nigeria for treatment.

Broader Expert Opinions: Recently, fertility specialist Dr. Jaiyeoba Adeyemi emphasized the importance of timely medical evaluation for couples. He advised that couples who have tried to conceive for one year without success should seek fertility assessment, especially women aged 35 and above, whose fertility declines more rapidly.

“Women above 35 need urgent intervention,” Adeyemi noted. “They should not delay in seeking professional help for conception challenges.”

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