The use of contraceptives in Kenya has been widely accepted with many women using them to avoid pregnancy. Some of the contraceptives can be bought at local pharmacies while others are prescribed by doctors. Even so, it is important to understand that there are risks attached to the use of birth control methods. Some of the risks that one is exposed to when using contraceptives include:
• Unwanted pregnancies
Unfortunately, contraceptives cannot guarantee 100% prevention of pregnancy with many relying on the capability of women to strictly follow instructions as indicated or prescribed. Many women have become pregnant even when using pills and IUDs among others, leaving them confused and shocked. It is therefore important to be aware of such possibilities when using contraceptives to avoid disappointment.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Although contraceptives can be effective in preventing pregnancy, the majority of them do not protect women from contracting STIs. Due to this one-sided focus of contraceptive use to avoid conception, many women have found themselves getting infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases. Nevertheless, barrier methods such as condoms may help to prevent such infections but only when used well.
• Harmful side effects
Majority of contraceptives given to women in Kenya to stop them from getting pregnant have side effects. The effects on the body can be minimal or extreme depending on the birth control method used. Some of the common ones include nausea, irregular menses, headaches, lower libido, weight gain, vaginal discharge, mood swings, and tender breasts among others. In cases, where the use of contraceptives begins to affect one’s health, it is advisable to seek medical treatment.
