A second chance to parenthood : media coverage of Invitro fertilisation in Uganda

Abstract

This study examines the coverage of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in Ugandan media. The main objective was to explore how IVF is covered, identify the framing techniques used by journalists, and understand the factors influencing the media’s representation of IVF in Uganda. Using framing theory, the research identified several key frames in the coverage, including human interest, conflict, moral issues, cost implications, and attribution of responsibility. The study employed a mixed-methods approach utilizing a sequential design. It analyzed two newspapers, The New Vision and The Daily Monitor, from 2008 to 2012, supplemented by in-depth interviews with five senior health and science journalists. The content analysis provided quantitative data, while the interviews offered qualitative insights. The findings revealed that IVF coverage in Ugandan media was limited, with only 50 stories across both newspapers—39 in The New Vision and 11 in The Daily Monitor. IVF was mostly presented as a positive solution for infertility, offering hope to couples, though the coverage was predominantly in news articles and rarely featured prominently on the front page. The research highlighted several factors shaping this coverage, including the availability of case studies, gaps in journalists' knowledge, their attitudes towards IVF, and the shortage of embryologists in Uganda. The study recommends that scientists engage more actively with journalists to provide new findings and generate story ideas. Additionally, journalists are encouraged to consult scientific journals for more accurate and insightful reporting. The research underscores the importance of stronger collaboration between scientists and health/science journalists to improve the quality and depth of IVF coverage. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by examining the factors influencing media portrayals of IVF in Uganda, an area that has previously been unexplored.