Scenario of Infertility Problem in Nepal?
What is the Scenario of Infertility Problem in Nepal?
Infertility remains a significant challenge in Nepal, reflecting broader issues faced in many developing countries. The situation is complex, influenced by various factors such as social stigmas, economic barriers, and limited access to advanced medical treatments.
Cost of IVF Treatment
The cost of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) varies widely, depending on multiple factors, including location, the fertility clinic chosen, specific treatment needs, and additional services required. In Nepal, IVF treatment is generally more affordable than in many other countries, offering a cost-effective solution for those who can afford it. However, despite the lower costs, many couples in Nepal still find fertility treatments financially out of reach, leading them down challenging and often disheartening paths.
Social Stigma and Gender Dynamics
In Nepal, as in other South Asian countries like India, Bhutan, and Pakistan, traditional gender roles continue to exert significant influence. In some parts of the country, male dominance remains prevalent, and the burden of infertility often falls disproportionately on women. When a couple struggles to conceive, it is typically the woman who is blamed, regardless of the underlying cause. This is despite the fact that male factors contribute to approximately 40% of infertility cases.
Unfortunately, even when male infertility is identified, societal norms and pride may prevent men from seeking treatment. Instead, the issue is often sidestepped by marrying a second wife, perpetuating the cycle of blame and untreated infertility.
Changing Perspectives and Hope Through Treatment
Despite these challenges, there is a growing awareness and gradual shift in attitudes towards infertility in Nepal. Fertility treatments are offering new hope to women who have long suffered in silence, enduring societal and familial pressures. With advancements in medical science and the expertise of fertility centers, women now have the opportunity to overcome infertility and escape the toxic environments that have historically plagued them.
The narrative is slowly changing, but the journey remains arduous. The issue of infertility in Nepal, and other South Asian countries, has deep roots in cultural and social norms. Yet, as more couples seek help and more successful treatments emerge, there is hope that the blame and stigma associated with infertility will diminish over time.
This is the current scenario of infertility in Nepal—a situation that has persisted for decades but is now, slowly and steadily, being addressed.
