Unfortunately, poverty can indirectly affect fertility by limiting access to protein-rich foods, healthcare, and essential nutrients needed for hormone balance and ovulation. This hormone balancing issue and ovulation are the easily over-looked reasons a couple could be considered fine, yet baby is not coming.
Sadly, a time comes in the life of any woman trying to conceive, when she will need to load-up on essential nutrients that improve hormone and ovulation.
When this time comes, she needs money to finance this important aspect of building nutrients required for conception.
One of such nutrients that a woman needs is protein.
How Does Protein Affect Fertility?
Protein plays a critical role in Hormone production (FSH, LH, progesterone), Egg development, Healthy uterine lining, Blood quality and Sperm health.
When protein intake is chronically low, the body prioritises survival over reproduction.
What Research Suggests About How Poverty Can Affect Fertility
Reports from global health institutions like the World Health Organisation indicate that malnutrition affects reproductive health outcomes, especially in low-income populations (1).
Studies show:
- Undernutrition disrupts ovulation
- Anaemia reduces oxygen delivery to reproductive organs
- Chronic stress from poverty increases cortisol levels
- Untreated infections due to poor healthcare access cause secondary infertility
Why This Matters In Nigeria And Africa
In many homes:
- Carbohydrates are affordable
- Protein is expensive
- Balanced meals are difficult to maintain
- Healthcare is out-of-pocket
This creates a fertility gap between economic classes. But there are available protein options in Nigeria.
Affordable Protein Options in Nigeria
Really, you do not need luxury foods to improve fertility.
Budget-friendly protein sources:
- Eggs
- Beans
- Soybeans
- Groundnuts
- Crayfish
- Dried fish
- Moi-moi
- Ugu
- Milk powder in pap
Above all, consistency matters more than cost.
Have You Read:Â Can Protein Help You Conceive? The Science Behind Nutrition And Fertility
Financial Recommendations For Women Trying To Conceive
If finances are a barrier, here are a few things that you could do.
- Create a “fertility nutrition” budget line
- Join a thrift savings group
- Start a small side income (home baking, digital skills, resale business)
- Reduce unnecessary spending and redirect to nutrition
- Buy protein foods in bulk with other women
Your fertility journey deserves strategy, not shame.
Read How To Overcome Fertility Finance IssuesÂ
Conclusion On How Pover Can Affect Fertility
Poverty does not define your ability to conceive. But nutrition is a powerful tool within your control.
Fertility is not just medical.
It is economic.
It is nutritional.
And it is strategic.