EP16: We Knew We Were Both AS”: Faith, Genotype & Sickle Cell in Nigeria or Faith vs Genetics?

Can you have faith in God while still accepting what genetics tells you? In Episode 16 of Our Mother’s Health Podcast, Dr Viviane Chinwah explores a difficult but important conversation about faith, genotype compatibility, sickle cell disease, marriage and reproductive choices. The discussion was prompted by the story of a Nigerian father who publicly reflected on a decision he and his wife made despite knowing they were both AS genotype carriers. Their belief that God would protect their future children raises a much wider question: What happens when faith, love and genetic information appear to collide? This episode is not an attack on religion, nor is it about blaming parents or telling people whom they should marry. Instead, we explore how accurate health information, genetic counselling, religious belief and reproductive autonomy can coexist. #SickleCell #Genotype #SickleCellNigeria #ASGenotype #GeneticCounselling #FaithAndScience #ReproductiveHealth #SickleCellAwareness #MaternalHealth #OurMothersHealth #EveryMotherMatters 🧬 In this episode: • What does AS + AS actually mean for each pregnancy? • Why does knowing your genotype matter? • Can faith and medical evidence coexist? • What happens when religious advice conflicts with genetic counselling? • Should churches and other faith communities discuss genotype before marriage? • What is the role of healthcare professionals in supporting informed choices? • How can couples discuss reproductive options without stigma or coercion? • Why must women remain central to reproductive decision-making? For two AS parents, each pregnancy generally carries a 25% chance of a child with AA, 50% chance of AS and 25% chance of SS. Each pregnancy is a new probability—not a guarantee about what will happen to a particular family. Dr Viviane also reflects on her personal connection to this conversation as someone with sickle cell trait who has lost siblings to sickle cell disease. This is ultimately a conversation about knowledge—not condemnation; counselling—not coercion; and informed choices—not stigma. 🙏 Faith can provide hope. 🧬 Genetics provides information. ❤️ Families deserve both compassion and informed choices. 🎙️ Host: Dr Viviane Chinwah Our Mother’s Health Podcast Real Stories. Real Issues. Real Impact. ❤️ Every Mother Matters. 💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Can faith and genetics work together when couples are making decisions about marriage and children? Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE and send this episode to someone who needs to hear this conversation.