In Kenya, contraceptives are quite accessible with most women getting them from hospitals or local health centres. However, not all contraceptives being sold are safe thus making it important to buy only after getting a go-ahead from a qualified doctor. Even so, the majority of birth control options in the country have their pros and cons which makes it important to be aware before making a final choice.
Natural method – This involves monitoring of a woman’s menstrual cycle using a chart or mobile app to determine safe days.
Pros: Inexpensive, no use of drugs
Cons: Limits sex, isn’t foolproof
Male condoms – The condom acts as a barrier to stop sperms from coming into contact with the woman.
Pros: Easy to access, affordable
Cons: Effective when used correctly, can be used only once
Birth control pill- This is a popular contraceptive in Kenya that prevents ovulation by introducing estrogen and progesterone in the body.
Pros: Affordable, easily accessible
Cons: Unexpected changes in menstruation flow
Injection or implant – Hormonal injections prevents pregnancy for three months while implants can stop pregnancy for up to three years.
Pros: Highly effective, repeat injection per quarter for injections
Cons: Can be expensive, irregular bleeding, spotting
Intrauterine Device (IUD) – This device prevents the sperm from fertilizing a woman’s egg. There are different types of IUDs available in the market and they can last for three to ten years depending on the one you want to be inserted.
Pros: Low maintenance, Lasts for a long time
Cons: Irregular periods, heavy periods, can slip out
