OPINION: When Is the Right Time to Embrace IVF?

In May 2025, Kenya will mark the 20th anniversary of its first test-tube baby, who was conceived at Nairobi IVF Centre and born in 2005. 

Despite this milestone, the country still faces significant challenges in the realm of assisted reproductive technology (ART), particularly in vitro fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy. This is largely due to the absence of a comprehensive legal framework for reproductive health.

Globally, however, IVF has become one of the most widely used assisted reproductive technologies, offering hope to countless couples facing infertility issues. IVF involves fertilizing the female egg with male sperm outside the body—in a test tube—before transferring the embryos into the woman's womb.

IVF becomes a viable option for many couples when natural conception proves difficult. IVF is recommended if a couple has been unable to conceive after at least 12 months of trying, or six months for women over 35 years of age.

Other medical conditions that might necessitate IVF include blocked fallopian tubes, a history of tubal ligation, advanced maternal age, low egg count, severe endometriosis, multiple failed ovarian stimulation cycles, male infertility issues, or unexplained infertility despite unsuccessful insemination attempts.

The emotional toll of infertility treatments can be significant, so choosing the right clinic is crucial. Prospective patients should thoroughly evaluate the credentials of their fertility specialists and medical team. 

Seeking expert medical advice is essential for those facing fertility challenges. For instance, the Nairobi West Hospital’s fertility center provides evaluations and personalized treatment plans to support hopeful parents.

Since the first successful IVF birth in 1978, the procedure has evolved, becoming both more effective and accessible. Today, IVF accounts for over 1 per cent of all births in the United States.

However, success rates vary depending on factors such as age, overall health, and the quality of the eggs, sperm, and embryos. Younger patients typically experience higher success rates due to better egg quality.

A growing trend in fertility treatment is the increasing number of women opting to have their eggs harvested and stored for future use. 

The author, Dr. Ayman Mostafa is an IVF and Fertility Expert at The Nairobi West Hospital