If you or someone you love is thinking about IVF in Nigeria, you’re not alone.
Every year, thousands of individuals and couples in Nigeria turn to fertility clinics looking for answers, options, and—most of all—hope.
But IVF (short for in vitro fertilisation) still feels like a mystery to many.
It’s often misunderstood, wrapped in stigma, or seen as something only “rich people” or celebrities do.
This article breaks it down in plain, honest language. No medical jargon. No shame. Just what you need to know—especially if you’re considering IVF in Nigeria (or other parts of the world).
What Is IVF In Simple Terms?
IVF is a process that helps people who are struggling to get pregnant naturally.
Instead of sperm meeting egg inside the body (as in a natural pregnancy), IVF brings them together outside the body—in a laboratory.
If fertilisation happens and a healthy embryo is formed, it is placed back into the woman’s womb.
The goal? A successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Who Is IVF For?
IVF is for people dealing with:
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Male factor infertility (low sperm count or poor sperm quality)
- Irregular ovulation or PCOS
- Unexplained infertility (when tests can’t find a clear reason)
- Older age (usually 35+)
- Previous failed pregnancies or miscarriages
- Couples who want to screen for inherited diseases
In Nigeria, cultural and societal pressures can make the fertility journey even more emotionally draining.
IVF offers a scientific option—and for many, it’s the answer they’ve been searching for.
Top 5 Leading IVF Hospitals In Nigeria
How IVF Works: The Basic Steps
Here’s how a typical IVF cycle works in Nigeria:
After proper counselling, the couple understand what they’re about to go through.
Hormone Treatment
The woman takes fertility drugs (injections or tablets) to help her body produce multiple eggs.
Egg Retrieval
Once the eggs mature, they are collected from the ovaries using a simple medical procedure (done under mild sedation).
Fertilisation In The Lab
The collected eggs are mixed with sperm (from a partner or donor) in a lab. Some will get fertilised and develop into embryos.
Embryo Monitoring
The lab team watches how the embryos grow. After a few days, the healthiest one(s) are chosen for transfer.
Embryo Transfer
The embryo is gently placed into the womb. This is usually painless and takes a few minutes.
Pregnancy Test
After about two weeks, a blood test is done to check if the procedure was successful.
Understanding The Possible Risks Of IVF
While IVF offers hope to many, it’s important to be aware of some possible challenges and side effects that may come with the process.
It Can Be Emotionally And Physically Draining
IVF can take a toll on your body, mind, and finances. It’s normal to feel tired, anxious, or stressed at different stages of the journey. Having support—from a counsellor, your partner, family, or friends—can help you cope better.
Egg Retrieval Procedure May Have Side Effects
To collect your eggs, doctors use a thin needle guided by ultrasound. It’s a minor procedure, but there’s a small risk of bleeding, infection, or injury to nearby organs like the bladder or bowel. You’ll be given medicine to help you sleep and reduce pain, which also comes with some risks.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
Fertility injections used during IVF can sometimes cause the ovaries to swell and become painful. This is called OHSS. Symptoms usually last about a week and include bloating, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you get pregnant, these symptoms may last longer. In rare cases, OHSS can be more serious and cause weight gain and difficulty breathing.
Risk Of Miscarriage
IVF pregnancies carry the same miscarriage risks as natural ones — about 15% in younger women and over 50% for those in their 40s. Age is a major factor.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Sometimes, a fertilised egg may implant outside the womb—often in a fallopian tube. This is called an ectopic pregnancy, and it cannot continue. It’s a rare complication, but it can happen with IVF.
Multiple Pregnancy
IVF increases the chance of having twins or triplets. While it might sound like a blessing, multiple pregnancies carry more risks, like high blood pressure, early delivery, and low birth weight.
Birth Defects
Most babies born through IVF are healthy. However, some research suggests a slightly higher risk of certain birth defects, like heart or digestive problems. Age is still the biggest factor, and more studies are needed to understand the full picture.
Premature Birth and Low Birth Weight
There’s a slightly higher chance that IVF babies may be born earlier or smaller than expected.
Cancer Concerns
Some earlier studies raised questions about IVF increasing cancer risk. But more recent research shows no strong link between IVF and cancers like breast, cervical, or ovarian cancer.
How Much Does IVF Cost In Nigeria?
Let’s be real—IVF is not cheap. Costs vary depending on the clinic, the tests needed, and whether extra services (like donor sperm/eggs or embryo freezing) are required.
- Average cost: ₦1.2 million to ₦2.5 million per cycle
- Top clinics: May charge ₦3 million or more
- Government or university hospitals: May offer subsidised or more affordable services in limited cases
It’s important to ask your clinic exactly what the fee includes— medications? tests? embryo freezing? second transfer?
Also, most IVF payments are out-of-pocket. Health insurance in Nigeria rarely covers fertility treatment, though this is slowly changing.
What To Expect Emotionally
IVF is more than just a medical procedure—it’s a rollercoaster of emotions.
- The waiting can be the hardest part.
- The injections and hormone changes can affect mood and energy levels.
- The financial pressure can cause stress for couples.
- The fear of failure is real—and valid.
That’s why it’s important to have support.
Whether it’s your partner, a therapist, a friend, or a support group (many exist online in Nigeria), don’t go through this journey alone.
Choosing The Right Clinic In Nigeria
Some things to consider when picking a fertility clinic:
- Success rates (Ask: how many patients get pregnant per cycle?)
- Doctors’ and medical professionals’ qualifications and experience
- Quality of the lab and equipment
- Transparency about pricing and processes
- Support services like counselling and follow-up care
Notable clinics in Nigeria include:
- Nordica Fertility Centre (Lagos, Asaba, Abuja)
- Bridge Clinic (Lagos, Port Harcourt)
- Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) IVF Centre
- Nisa Premier Hospital
- National Hospital Abuja (IVF Centre)
Always do your own research and ask questions—a good clinic will take the time to answer them.
IVF In Nigeria: Hope, Science, And Changing Lives
IVF is not a miracle—but it is a powerful option.
And while it doesn’t work for everyone the first time, it has helped thousands of Nigerian families become parents.
So if you’re considering IVF, know this:
- You are not alone.
- There is no shame.
- And yes, there is hope.
Developing societies in Nigeria and Africa are gradually understanding the importance of assisted birth and this understanding is slowly eroding age-long cultural, religious and traditional beliefs that have made the adoption of assisted birth in Africa a stigma and unfortunately prevented many couples from becoming biological parents.
One of our goals as a health media brand is to bring scientific knowledge about health and wellbeing to everyone in very simple language.
We want our readers and community to kindly note that our health and wellbeing content, articles and posts are not medical advice.
We always encourage readers to consult qualified healthcare professionals, and our website only provides information that helps people take the steps towards making the right decisions.
