Misconceptions that reduce family planning uptake
Doris Kathia
Many young people want to avoid pregnancy but aren’t using effective methods of contraception because of myths and misconceptions.
They include fears that some methods would render them infertile or reduce their childbearing capacity.
Some believe condoms are not effective enough in prevention of pregnancy due to the potential for failure.
There is a myth that discomfort and irritation from the condom’s lubricant can cause infections.
Methods such as the coil or implant, in some young people’s minds, have the potential to harm one’s internal organs.
There is also the wrong notion that the use of modern contraceptives encourages young women to become promiscuous.
Moreover, male partners believe that use of contraceptives contribute to denying intimate partners their sexual freedom and regards them as an unnecessary burden.
Further there is a myth that contraceptives decrease sexual desire among women, which forces men into infidelity.
But here are the facts.
First, using a condom is the only dual protection method. If worn and used correctly and consistently, they can prevent pregnancy by 98 per cent and protect from sexually transmitted diseases.
Coils is put in a woman’s uterus to prevent the sperms from reaching the egg and cause no harm. Implants are inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm.
The important thing to note is that everyone is different and what you experience from a particular method of contraception is different from another person’s experience.
There can be a lot of confusion regarding modern contraceptive methods and infertility.
The truth is that contraceptives are designed to temporarily delay fertility and prevent pregnancy not cause infertility, no matter the type of contraceptive you choose or how long you have been using it.
Contraceptive use is a key aspect to curb rapid population growth hence driving development.
In 2015 the government of Kenya reaffirmed its commitment in line with National Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive health policy meant to expand access to youth friendly services for adolescents and young people. Despite this, many communities have very limited access to this health service.
Essentially, the government committed to improve access to contraceptive services with specific commitments aimed at finalising and disseminating the family planning national Costed Implementation Plan (CIP) of 2017-2020; Strengthening national family planning programme as well as strengthen partnership with the private sector through a total market approach to increase private sector family planning delivery contributions.
To curb the gaps in demystifying myths and misconceptions around contraceptives, there is need to leverage on the existing service provision channels to provide accurate information and services on a wide range of contraceptive methods.
Everyone has a right to accurate information to enable access to contraceptive services.
To improve access to health services, there is need to rehabilitate health facilities and put in place a strong referral network to give women and girls access to life-saving services when they need them.
Funding and proper implementation priority for contraceptive services can make a difference in the lives of young people through prioritising their health needs including family planning.— The writer is a sexual and reproductive health rights advocate
