Despite provision of free contraceptives in public health facilities, misinformation and stigma discourage the youth from accessing them. HENDRINA FOURBAGS of Malawi News Agency writes
Misinformation and stigma surrounding contraceptives are discouraging adolescents in Malawi from using family planning methods, putting them at risk of unplanned pregnancies despite the methods being offered for free in public hospitals.
Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Specialist, Dr. Zaziwe Gundah, told Malawi News Agency on Wednesday in an interview that fear of judgment from parents, peers and health workers is among the factors keeping adolescents away from contraceptives.
“Some young people believe contraceptives cause permanent infertility, reduce sexual pleasure or lead to long term health complications,” said Gundah.
He said some communities also view contraceptives as appropriate only for married women or those who have already given birth, while the high cultural value attached to fertility further influences adolescents’ decisions.
Gundah said the problem is compounded by limited access points, inadequate information and difficulties reaching young people in rural and hard to reach areas.
He said some health facilities also face shortages of supplies and trained personnel needed to provide youth friendly services.
Gundah recommended incorporating reproductive health education into senior secondary schools and involving religious leaders in efforts to provide accurate information.
He also proposed using digital platforms to give young people confidential and youth friendly reproductive health information.
Meanwhile, Family Planning Association of Malawi (FPAM) Social, Behavior Change and Communication Lead, Andrew Mkandawire, said misinformation is also contributing to low contraceptive uptake among young people.
“False information linking contraceptives to cancer and infertility is creating fear among adolescents and their parents,” said Mkandawire.
He said some parents would rather see young people become pregnant than use family planning methods because of the fears surrounding contraceptives.
Mkandawire also cited shortages of health workers and limited service delivery points as barriers to young people accessing accurate information and reproductive health services.
He said limited continuity of sexual and reproductive health programmes makes it difficult to engage young people regularly and reinforce accurate information and referrals.
Mkandawire called for increased funding for adolescent SRHR services, expanded peer education, remote access, community outreach, local language media campaigns and greater parental involvement.