Technology Offers Hope for Childless, Infertile Couples

Laparoscopic surgery, modern surgical technique now offers succor to Nigerian couples facing problems of infertility and childlessness, Nigeria CommunicationsWeek investigations has shown.
It is one of the wonders of science and technology which has blessed mankind with various comforts of life. Experts said that the development has removed the curtain from the face of nature.
Today with small incisions to remove the endometriosis, a common health problem in women, laparoscopic surgeries increase the chances of conception for couples.
Nigeria CommunicationsWeek gathered that endometriosis is the growth of cells similar to those that form the inside of the uterus (endometrial cells), but in a location outside of the uterus.  It causes great discomfort including pelvic pain, severe menstrual cramping, painful intercourse, premenstrual staining, heavy periods, diarrhea and blood in the urine.
Doctors are able to remove this now with a thin rod-shaped instrument with a tiny camera on the tip, called a laparoscope.
The laparoscope is put into the body and moved from the outside by the surgeon. The camera sends pictures to a TV monitor or other viewing device.
During the operation, the surgeon can see the organs inside the body on the viewing device
Nigeria CommunicationsWeek investigations showed that infertility and childlessness is of public health importance in Nigeria and many other developing nations because of its high prevalence and especially due to its serious social implications.
Dr. Eniayewun Muyiwa, chief medical director, Good Seed Hospital, Lagos said that most infertile couples in Nigeria have the possibility of benefiting from infertility treatment.
Muyiwa, a gynecologist and specialist in Laparoscopic surgery however said that infertility treatment method for couples will depend upon the causes of the infertility.
“It will depend upon whether the problem lies with the man, woman or both. In some cases the exact cause may not be known.” He added.
Though laparoscopic surgery has been around for a while in other parts of the world, it has not become wide spread in Nigeria as doctors still resort to open surgery.
Laparoscopic surgery has benefits when performed by properly trained surgeons and can be used for nearly all kinds of surgery depending on surgeons’ areas of specialization and proficiency.
Untrained hands, laparoscopy has associated risks so care must be exercised.