Contraceptives Education

 

CONTRACEPTIVES EDUCATION

  

By Ivy Chepchumba

In African societies, the subject of contraception is highly frowned upon. It is deemed taboo to discuss matters of sexuality, and anyone vocal about them is judged favorably. However, times have changed, and the correct information on contraception is not only vital but also life-saving. Everyone is entitled to lead healthy sex lives. The safest way is by providing the right education bout contraception and squashing the rumors and the darkness around this matter.

I will always support any debate, initiative, and conversation around contraceptives. I believe that men and women should have the right to choose and plan for pregnancy. They should take responsibility and accountability for their sex lives. As a woman, you are entirely responsible for everything about your sexuality. Everything you do will have a consequence. We have the most significant burden when sex results from unintended pregnancy.

Most girls start becoming sexually active and reproductive at the age of 12 years. At this age is when this child should be introduced to knowledge about contraceptives and also be able to know about sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia. Contraceptive education will help many ladies in society in making just decisions on what they want with their sexual lives. All they need is basic information about their use of contraception and how to use contraceptive methods effectively.

One thing about contraceptives is that it helps protect people from getting pregnant.  However, not all methods of contraception will protect you from HIV/AIDS. The use of condoms is the only reliable method that covers both fronts, but even that has its risks if not used correctly.

Most universities provide condoms for students. Some will say that this is a bad habit because the school is encouraging students to do sexual activities or trying to legitimize sexual activities. Contrary to this, I think this is a good stand taken by the university to combat the spread of sexually transmitted infections among students and reduce the risks of HIV. This will help the students in making healthy choices for themselves.

There are many contraceptive choices, and one should visit a healthcare practitioner before settling on one. There are Implants, an injection commonly known as the shot, and pills. There are more, and I would encourage anyone sexually active to read about them and get educated.

The contraceptive implant is usually inserted under the skin of the upper hand. It releases the hormone progestin to stop one from getting pregnant. The progestin thickens the mucus on the cervix, preventing the sperm from swimming through to the egg. This may happen up to at least three years. Side effects are expected while using the implant. Contraceptive injections may last for up to 3 months.

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