By Japhet Davidson

As part of its efforts to improve on the health issues of Nigerians especially as it concerns fertility and reproductive health, the Association of Fertility and Reproductive Health (AFRH) is set to hold her 12^th Annual International conference in Lagos.

The conference with the theme: Maximising ART Successes and the Sub-theme: Individualized Controlled Ovarian Stimulation which is slated for September 22nd and 23^rd at Marriot Hotel, Ikeja will address topical issues relating to fertility like, factors responsible for the highest level of infertility, understanding how to improve in their services, how to reduce the cost of treatment, how to handle ultrasound services etc.

This was disclosed by Dr Adewinmi Adeyemi- Bero, the 2^nd Vice Chairman and local organising committee chairman during the press conference held in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Adeyemi-Bero stated that “Infertility has continued to cause a lot of anguish for couples over the years and the trend appears to be worsening. A lot of research is being done to provide solutions for people experiencing this emotionally and financially draining condition. The association is therefore geared towards the promotion of quality education and other areas of need for service provision in reproductive health, with emphasis on fertility services.”

Continuing, he stated that “the association will use the conference to create awarness among all persons within Nigeria, Africa and abroad, of the importance of reproductive health. The conference will be preceded by a Pre-Conference workshop with lectures and practical training on the use of Ultrasound in infertility management and Utilzation of the AFRH Registry. There will also be a gala night on 23^rd September where the doctors will unwind. The hybrid meeting will feature a series of educative and interactive lectures by very experienced internatrional and local speakers.”

On his part, Dr Preye Fiebai, First vice chairman pointed out that fertility care is very expensive all over the world, hence, AFRH is focused on promoting affordability without compromising success rates. He, however noted that funding has been a big challenge and as such solicited for collaboration with the government to enable the body achieve its aims.This is reflected in the theme of this year’s annual conference.

Also speaking, Rose Ogbeche, Assistant Secretary of AFRH said, “it promises to be an exciting and very educative conference. Over 250 delegates have registered for the conference and many more will join virtually.”Adding that AFRH will continue to do her best to ensure that the standard and success of ART treatment in Nigeria is comparable with global best practices.