HARARE, Mar. 5 (NewsDay Live) – As Zimbabwe joins the world in marking International Women’s Day on March 8, the conversation on women’s empowerment increasingly centres on reproductive health.
This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” provides a fitting lens through which to view fertility care and its transformative impact.
Although infertility affects both men and women, women often shoulder the blame — even in cases linked to male factors. This misplaced responsibility entrenches gender inequality, fuels discrimination and, in some cases, exposes women to violence.
The impact of infertility extends beyond medicine. It can trigger psychological distress, marital strain, intimate partner violence, risky coping behaviours and economic hardship. In societies where parenthood is a cultural expectation, childlessness may result in stigma, identity loss, grief or social exclusion.
In vitro fertilisation (IVF), a leading assisted reproductive technology, has become a critical option for couples facing subfertility. In Zimbabwe, IVF services have expanded steadily, combining clinical expertise with patient-centred care.
At IVF Zimbabwe in Harare, 390 IVF babies have been born to date. Last year alone, the clinic recorded 57 births — roughly one IVF baby every week.
“Infertility is not merely a medical condition; it intersects with human rights, gender justice, economics and public health,” said Dr Tinovimba Mhlanga of IVF Zimbabwe.
“By opening doors for women from diverse backgrounds, IVF reflects the spirit of ‘Give to Gain’ — enabling families to grow while challenging harmful narratives around infertility. Reproductive health is central to dignity, equality and empowerment.”
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Beyond the statistics, women who have undergone IVF describe profound personal transformation. One called it “a second chance at life,” saying motherhood restored both joy and social acceptance after years of discrimination. Another described the experience as “liberating,” allowing her to reclaim her identity while advancing her personal and professional goals.
These accounts underscore that IVF’s impact extends beyond clinical success. It can restore agency, reduce stigma and build resilience.
However, Mhlanga emphasised that medical solutions alone are insufficient.
“Alongside clinical interventions, we need a shift in social attitudes, equitable access to care and deliberate efforts to dismantle the stigma around childlessness. Without this, women will continue to bear disproportionate blame for a shared human condition.”
As International Women’s Day approaches, he said, it is a moment to reflect on both progress and the work ahead.
“The empowerment that comes through reproductive health services is profound. Addressing infertility through IVF can restore dignity and agency, enabling women to participate fully in family and community life.”
