Awareness and acceptability of embryo adoption among African women with fertility challenges in Umuahia, South East Nigeria

Abstract

Objective: In African culture, a large premium is attached to procreation. An African woman who has not given birth to a child lacks fulfillment and marital security. Embryo adoption though an uncommon procedure is currently becoming an option for infertile African women. Methods: A study questionnaire was randomly administered to 220 infertile women at the fertility clinic. Data collated was analyzed using the EPI info version. Results: Most of the women were married (85.7%) and the majority were Pentecostals (71%). The most common source of awareness was social media (40.8%) and friends (34.7%). Most respondents were aware of embryo adoption (82.8%). All respondents most importantly, understand embryo adoption to mean fusion of male and female gametes (100%). For the majority of the respondents, their culture (94.4%) and religion (92.5%) do not prohibit embryo adoption. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that embryo adoption is widely accepted as a treatment for infertility among women in Umuahia, South-East Nigeria; a typical African society. Religion and culture in Africa are not barriers to the utilization of embryo adoption in Africa.