Vine Branch Fertility Centre Ibadan Delivers its First IVF Baby

Baby Akeju

The joy in the family of Mr and Mrs Akeju knew no bounds on Wednesday, 16th March 2016 when they were delivered of a baby.

This follows about 21 years of seemingly endless search for the fruits of the womb to no avail. Succour finally came their way when the Vine Branch Fertility Centre in Ibadan opened in May, 2015. This lucky couple found their way there (Vine Branch) where the IVF was done.

Invitro Fertilization (IVF) otherwise known as Test tube babies is a medical procedure deployed to help infertile couple achieve pregnancy by fertilizing the sperm and egg in the laboratory and then putting the embryo in the mother’s womb to grow. It is a form of assisted reproductive technique.

The first IVF baby was born in 1978 but this procedure was not conducted in Nigeria until 1989 after which Ibadan joined the league with this baby whose IVF was done in July 2015 and delivered in March, 2016.

This is a great feat in Ibadan and further gives hope to couples who have been battling with infertility without success.

The 47 year-old proud mother of the baby could not hold back her tears of joy as the baby was christened Precious Grace Oluwasindara Akeju to the admiration of friends and relatives who had been patiently waiting and praying with the couple. To God be the glory.

Also speaking, the Fertility expert and Consultant Gynaecologist who led the team of experts to carry out the successful IVF, Dr Oluwabukunmi Kolade of Vine Branch Fertility Centre, Mokola, Ibadan gave all thanks to God almighty for the opportunity to finally put a smile on the faces of these couple. He narrated that the centre which opened barely a year ago was able defy all odds to achieve the feat. Asked about the average success rate of such a newly opened fertility centre, Dr Kolade averred that it takes about 8 months to one year for most centres to achieve their first pregnancy but with the help of God and dedication of the management and staff of Vine Branch Fertility Centre, they were able to achieve pregnancy in their first attempt at IVF. 

He further stated that the Centre will not rest on its oars as they have even acquired some sophisticated equipment to ease their task of giving hope to couples. On the cost of IVF in Ibadan, Dr Kolade believes that “if a couple can afford a small Tokunbo car, then they can afford an IVF” it is that affordable, yet the result remains priceless.