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In a shocking exposé by Godfrey George in the Punch Newspaper, a disturbing trend has emerged among some women in Nigeria who are resorting to pregnancy as a means to achieve their ideal body shape. This practice involves intentionally getting pregnant to gain weight in specific areas, only to terminate the pregnancy after five months.
A Chilling Reality
Dr. Sina Ajidahun, a physician, expressed his disbelief upon learning about this trend, calling it “madness.” Investigating further, the article reveals that this practice has been known since at least 2009 in certain circles, particularly in Delta State. Women reportedly believe that gaining weight through pregnancy will enhance their appearance, leading them to seek out this dangerous method.
Voices from the Community
Interviews with locals confirm the prevalence of this practice. One woman recounted how girls would intentionally get pregnant to develop curves and then abort once they achieved their desired look. A retired nurse, referred to as “Iron Lady,” acknowledged that while this trend is not new, it poses severe health risks, including complications from unsafe abortions.
Tragic stories abound, such as that of a young woman who bled to death after a botched abortion. These narratives illustrate the grave dangers involved in manipulating pregnancy for vanity, highlighting a societal obsession with body image that drives women to take such extreme measures.
Tragic Consequences
The article highlights tragic stories of women who have suffered severe complications or even died due to unsafe abortion practices related to this trend. One young woman bled to death after a botched abortion, illustrating the grave dangers involved.
Abortion in Nigeria: A Legal and Health Crisis
In Nigeria, abortion is only legal when performed to save a woman’s life; however, it remains common and mostly unsafe due to clandestine procedures carried out by unskilled providers. According to the Guttmacher Institute, unsafe abortions significantly contribute to Nigeria’s high maternal mortality rates—one of the highest globally. In 2012 alone, an estimated 1.25 million induced abortions occurred, and that number nearly doubled by 2019.
Complications from unsafe abortions can range from pain and bleeding to severe conditions such as sepsis and even death. About 40% of women undergoing abortions experience complications serious enough to require medical treatment.
Pregnancy-for-Weight-Gain: A Risky Gamble
Dr. Chinyere Atansi from the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital cautioned that pregnancy-for-weight-gain may not work for everyone. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to weight gain for some but may result in weight loss for others. Continuous abortions can disrupt reproductive systems and lead to future fertility issues.
Dr. Ekinyi Destiny-Ochete, CEO of EEK Fertility Herbal, warned that repeated abortions could risk infertility later in life. Medical practitioners emphasize that there are safer, healthier ways to gain weight without resorting to such drastic measures.
Healthier Alternatives for Weight Gain
Nutritionist Emmanuel Udoh suggests healthier methods for gaining weight through proper diet and lifestyle changes. He advises consuming more calories than needed by eating small but frequent meals rich in protein and complex carbohydrates.
Societal Pressures and Mental Health Issues
Psychologists highlight that the decision to manipulate pregnancy for weight gain often stems from societal pressures regarding physical appearance. Dr. Usen Essien noted that women may struggle with self-image issues tied to societal norms that prioritize physical attractiveness over intrinsic qualities.
Dr. JohnBosco Chukwuorji pointed out that women suffering from Body Dysmorphic Disorder may engage in such high-risk behaviors due to dissatisfaction with their body image. The constant pressure from society and media can lead these individuals to take extreme measures in pursuit of an idealized appearance.
Conclusion
This troubling trend underscores the extreme lengths some women will go to for societal approval regarding body image. It raises urgent questions about the pressures of beauty standards and the need for better education on reproductive health. As this dark secret continues to unfold, it is crucial for society to address these issues openly and compassionately.
This summary incorporates information from an original article published by Punch Newspaper.
