Breaking Infertility Stigma: Journalists Urged to Amplify Voices
Public health expert Dorothy Ngoma noted Malawi's health system focuses on diseases while people suffer silently from issues like infertility.
LILONGWE, Malawi - Journalists across Malawi have been urged to use their platforms to help end infertility stigma and gender-based violence in the country, writes Bridget Banda.
The call came during a Merck Foundation online health media training in partnership with Malawi's First Lady Monica Chakwera and the Media Council of Malawi on Thursday.
The meeting highlighted the influential role journalists can play in advocating for women's health, social and educational issues.
Gynecologist Annie Kumwenda cited untreated infections, poor nutrition and unsafe abortions as factors contributing to infertility.
"Time has come to remove the blame on females only because a child is comprised of both partners," she said, emphasizing the need for couples to get regular checkups.
Kumwenda recommended exercise, balanced diets and quitting smoking to increase fertility chances.
Senior medical officer Dr. Roy Banda highlighted psychosocial impacts of gender-based violence, infertility stigma and child marriage, including childhood trauma, social isolation and substance abuse.
"It is sad to note that those who have stayed for more than a year are being mocked by the community and relatives," he said.
Dr. Banda called on journalists to raise awareness, promote human rights and respect the dignity of victims when reporting on these issues.
He stressed the importance of keeping girls in school.
Media Council Executive Director, Moses Kaufa, urged journalists to challenge stigma by ensuring survivor-centered reporting that promotes empathy and community engagement.
"Media has the power to encourage behavior change and advocacy for gender equality," he said.
Public health expert Dorothy Ngoma noted Malawi's health system focuses on diseases while people suffer silently from issues like infertility.
She called for more public awareness while tackling maternal deaths.