Birth Control (Contraception)

What is birth control (contraception)?

Birth control is any method used to prevent pregnancy. It allows individuals and couples to decide when and how many children they want to have. There are different types of birth control methods, including condoms, birth control pills, injectables, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and permanent surgical methods like vasectomy and tubal ligation.

In Africa, where large families are often valued, many people may not be aware of their birth control options. However, family planning helps prevent unwanted pregnancies, reduces maternal and child deaths, and improves the overall health of families.

How common is birth control use in Africa?

Many African countries have low contraception usage compared to other parts of the world. According to the world health organization (WHO), about 58 million women in SubSaharan Africa use modern contraception, but many more still lack access due to myths, cultural beliefs, and lack of information. This results in high unintended pregnancies, leading to unsafe abortions and maternal deaths.

In Ghana, for example, only 25% of married women use modern contraceptives, while in Nigeria, it is about 17%. These numbers show the urgent need for more education on birth control.

Common misconceptions about birth control?

Many people fear birth control due to myths and misinformation. Here are some common misconceptions:

  • “Birth control causes infertility.” Most methods are reversible, meaning a woman can get pregnant after stopping them.
  • “It encourages irresponsible behaviour.” Using birth control does not mean a person will engage in risky sexual behavior. It only helps them plan their family responsibly.
  • “Natural methods are safer than modern methods.” While natural methods like the calendar method can work, they have a higher failure rate compared to modern methods.
  • “Men cannot participate in family planning.” Vasectomy is a safe and effective way for men to prevent pregnancy, and men can also support their partners in making informed choices.

Types of birth control?

There are different types of contraception, and they work in various ways. Here are the four main types:

Natural (lifestyle) methods

These methods require a person to track their body’s natural fertility signs to avoid pregnancy. They include:

  • Abstinence: Choosing not to have sex.
  • Withdrawal (pull-out method): The man pulls out before ejaculation. However, it is not 100% effective.
  • Fertility awareness (rhythm method): Tracking the menstrual cycle to avoid sex on fertile days. This includes:
  • Calendar method: Tracking menstrual cycles over months to estimate fertile days.
  • Temperature method: Checking body temperature daily to predict ovulation.
  • Cervical mucus method: Observing vaginal discharge changes to determine fertility.

Note: These methods require careful monitoring and have a higher risk of failure.

Barrier methods

These methods physically block sperm from reaching the egg:

  • Male condoms: A latex sheath worn over the penis. Prevents pregnancy and protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Female condoms: A pouch inserted into the vagina before sex.
  • Diaphragm & cervical cap: Small devices placed inside the vagina to cover the cervix.
  • Spermicides: Chemicals that kill sperm, often used with other barrier methods.

Hormonal methods

These contain hormones that prevent ovulation (release of an egg) and alter the uterus lining. Examples include:

  • Birth control pills: Taken daily; must be consistent to be effective.
  • Injectable contraceptives (depo-provera): A shot given every three months.
  • Contraceptive implant: A small rod placed under the skin, effective for up to five years.
  • Hormonal IUD: A small device inserted into the uterus, effective for 3 to 7 years.
  • Patch & vaginal ring: Release hormones to prevent pregnancy.

Permanent methods (medical procedures)

These methods are for people who do not want any more children:

  • Vasectomy (for men): A simple surgery that blocks sperm from leaving the testicles.
  • Tubal ligation (for women): A surgical procedure that blocks or cuts the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from meeting sperm.

Additional benefits of birth control?

  • Regulates menstrual cycles: Some hormonal methods reduce heavy periods and menstrual cramps.
  • Prevents pregnancy complications: Reduces the risk of maternal deaths.
  • Manages conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and hormonal acne.
  • Reduces the spread of STIs (when using condoms).

Accessing birth control in Africa?

Many governments provide free or low-cost contraceptives through family planning units in clinics and hospitals.

  • In Ghana, the national health insurance scheme (NHIS) covers some contraceptive methods.
  • In Kenya, the government offers free contraceptives in public hospitals.
  • In South Africa, Marie Stopes clinics provide affordable birth control services.

Final advice?

Birth control is a personal decision, but it is important to get accurate information and consult a healthcare provider. If you need guidance, visit the nearest Family Planning Unit at a hospital or clinic.

Remember, family planning is not just a woman’s responsibility, men should also be involved. Together, we can build healthier families and a better future for Africa.