When assisted reproductive technology (ART) opens the door for inclusivity in a highly charged cultural milieu: an exploration of news articles on the establishment of ART clinics in Zimbabwe.

ABSTRACT

The study focuses on how infertility and assisted reproductive technology (ART) have been portrayed in the Zimbabwean print news media, specifically looking at articles related to the country's two private fertility clinics established in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Through thematic analysis of 35 news articles, seven prominent themes were developed infertility as an undesirable and stigmatised condition; stress and the feminisation of infertility; the impact of societal and familial pressure to have children; ART as a ray of hope for infertile couples; growing acceptance of ART; availability, accessibility and affordability of ART; and the use of alternative medicines to cure infertility. The research highlights the coexistence of traditional medicine and ART in Zimbabwe, as well as the impact of stigma, pressure, and gender dynamics on infertile couples. Study findings signal how costly ART treatments may drive individuals towards potentially harmful traditional remedies. They also underscore the need for increased awareness of infertility, efforts to reduce stigma, and addressing barriers to ART access, particularly for men. Overall, findings shed light on the complexities surrounding infertility in Zimbabwe and the importance of addressing these issues in pursuit of better reproductive healthcare outcomes.