SHILLONG, March 30: Meghalaya got its first In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) facility on Wednesday following the inauguration of the Centre for Reproductive Medicine at Bethany Hospital, Shillong.
Speaking during the programme, Public Relations Officer, Bethany Hospital, Dr Kyntiewlang Sanmiet, said that people from Meghalaya have to undertake an arduous journey to Guwahati and other cities and stay there for a minimum of three months, which can sometimes exceed six months, just for IVF treatment.
He said this leads to an increase in the indirect cost of treatment, loss of income for the daily-wage earners and loss of mental support from their near and dear ones.
“Having a centre in the state which is well-equipped for IVF and with proper trained and skilled staff is a boon for the rural and urban population of Meghalaya,” Dr Sanmiet said, adding that the centre offers complete and comprehensive fertility treatment.
The inaugural programme was also attended by Secretary of Health department RM Kurbah and East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Isawanda Laloo.