Seven Nigerian Female ActorsWho Struggled with Infertility Challenges
In recent years, many Nigerian actresses have courageously shared their struggles with infertility, shedding light on an issue that is often stigmatized and deeply personal. These celebrities have opened up about their emotional journeys to parenthood, providing hope and solidarity to others facing similar challenges.
1. Stephanie Coker-Aderinokun
Diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) at 16, Stephanie faced challenges with In-vitro fertilization (IVF) but eventually had a successful pregnancy. She documented her journey in a YouTube series titled “African and Pregnant.” In a candid interview with Chude Jideonwo, she revealed her experience, including a year without menstruation and the traumatic wait for natural conception, which led her to opt for IVF. Stephanie married in December 2016 and welcomed her first child in November 2019.
2. Nse Ikpe-Etim
Nse was diagnosed with adenomyosis and underwent a hysterectomy, now advocating for adoption and surrogacy. She first spoke about her condition and its impact on her fertility in May 2019. Nse shared her emotional ordeal, including depression and societal pressure to become a mother. Despite the challenges, she emphasized the importance of contributing positively to the world.
3. Biola Adebayo
After experiencing failed IVF and surrogacy attempts, Biola finally succeeded with surrogacy. On May 30, 2023, she shared her struggle on her YouTube channel, recounting the emotional and physical challenges she and her husband faced. She joyfully announced the birth of their son on April 9, 2023, expressing gratitude for the support they received throughout their journey.
4. Adesua Etomi-Wellington
Adesua faced three failed IVF attempts and a diagnosis of PCOS before conceiving naturally. She and her husband, Banky W, shared their story at a church program, revealing their decision to try IVF after a year of unsuccessful natural attempts. Despite multiple setbacks, Adesua eventually gave birth to their son, Hazaiah, in January 2021.
5. Toyin Abraham
Toyin struggled with infertility and PCOS, eventually conceiving with the help of traditional medicine. She shared her experience in a now-deleted social media video, promoting her herbal fertility booster. After a previous marriage without children, Toyin married actor Kolawole Ajeyemi and welcomed a baby boy in August 2019.
6. Etinosa Idemudia
After battling PCOS and infertility for seven years, Etinosa conceived and shared her journey on Instagram in January 2024. She highlighted the societal pressure and personal turmoil she faced, encouraging others not to lose hope. Etinosa welcomed her daughter at the end of 2020 and turned her story into a movie to inspire and entertain others.
7. Wumi Toriola
Wumi experienced difficulties conceiving and underwent intrauterine insemination (IUI) before eventually conceiving naturally. She shared her story while celebrating her son’s second birthday, detailing the emotional rollercoaster and eventual miraculous conception. Wumi emphasized the importance of staying hopeful and not taking medical advice lightly.
These actresses have bravely shared their experiences, offering support and encouragement to others facing similar challenges.
