Myths about contraceptives in Kenya are quite a number resulting in many women avoiding them and putting their lives in danger. It is common to find women making uninformed decisions based on these misconceptions thus watering down the efforts that have been put in place by the government and health-based NGOs.
Some of the popular misconceptions that women have about using birth control after delivery include:
Breastfeeding is an effective contraceptive
Although breastfeeding has been said to prevent a woman from conceiving, it is not entirely true. Many new mothers have gotten pregnant within the first month of delivery, leaving them in shock. It is advisable to begin using contraceptives as early as six weeks after birth to avoid unplanned pregnancies.
You cannot change your birth control
Women in Kenya tend to continue using their usual birth control method even when they are thinking of trying another method. The main reason for this is lack of information or confidence to request an alternative. However, new mums can change their contraceptive method after consultation with their gynaecologist on the best one.
Long term contraceptives are not good for you
Planning to conceive soon after delivery is not the norm among many Kenyan women, hence the need to start using birth control as soon as possible. However, those planning to get pregnant within a year or two may be discouraged from using methods considered long term. Although these methods are usually very effective and you can still get pregnant when you desire.
