Abayomi Ajayi, the founder of Nordica Fertility Centre, has shared that the success rates of assisted reproductive methods, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), are expected to improve significantly as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance.
Ajayi, who has overseen over 5,000 successful conceptions during his 22 years of operating in Nigeria, explained that new developments in precision medicine are helping to enhance fertility treatments.
Despite the wide range of methods available to evaluate the success of an IVF procedure, experts still cannot guarantee a 100 percent chance of conception, Ajayi stated. “One of our biggest challenges is identifying the sperm most likely to fertilise the egg, as well as the egg’s potential to be fertilised and develop into a baby,” he explained during a briefing marking the 22nd anniversary of Nordica Fertility Centre.
Ajayi pointed out that while advancements have been made in predicting embryo viability, current techniques still do not offer complete certainty. “We use various methods to predict success, but none are fully accurate,” he added.
Looking ahead, Ajayi foresees a future where technology could make it possible to grow eggs and sperm in laboratories, eliminating the need for donor eggs.
AI is already transforming precision medicine by analyzing vast amounts of data, from genetic information to lifestyle factors, to create more personalized treatments, enhance diagnostics, and improve health outcomes. For example, AI-driven pharmacogenomics can provide insights into how individuals might respond to specific medications.
Ajayi also reaffirmed Nordica Fertility Centre’s commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology to improve reproductive health services in Nigeria and reduce infertility rates.
However, Ajayi discussed several challenges faced in providing reproductive health services. He recalled difficulties he encountered while establishing his clinic, particularly with customs importation. Despite the executive order to exempt medical imports from VAT and duties, it remains unimplemented, leading to high importation costs.
Ajayi also highlighted the economic challenges of operating in Nigeria, where income is in naira, but essential equipment must be purchased in euros or pounds. Additionally, customs charges are based on fluctuating foreign exchange rates, which differ from those applied to car imports.
Despite these obstacles, Ajayi expressed hope that the government would implement the executive order. He also mentioned the high cost of relying on diesel for power, with each clinic operating on three generators and a transformer. This reliance on private power sources adds to the cost burden, affecting the business’s competitiveness and profit margins due to currency fluctuations.
Ajayi’s current focus remains on consolidating the company’s achievements and staying at the forefront of technological innovations in reproductive health.
For those considering IVF, Ajayi urged people to educate themselves about the procedure before getting married.
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