Contraception In South Africa | Family Planning
Family Planning
Nearly every woman will consider having children at some point in her life. Family planning is a term that describes the conscious decision-making process about when to have children, the number of children to have, and the spacing between them.
The purpose of family planning is to empower individuals and couples to make informed decisions about their reproductive lives. One of the most commonly used methods of family planning is contraception. Contraception is the deliberate use of methods or techniques to prevent pregnancy. There are different types of contraception methods, and each has its advantages, disadvantages, and side effects. The advised method for you will depend on your lifestyle.
Different types of contraceptives available:
- Condoms: Condoms are thin latex barriers worn on the penis or inserted into the vagina to prevent sperm entering the vagina.
- Oral Contraceptive Pills: Pills taken orally to reduce hormones that cause pregnancy.
- Injection: There are two types of contraceptive injections: Depo-Provera or Noristerat. These injections release the hormone progesterone into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy.
- Implants: The contraceptive implant is a small flexible plastic rod that is inserted under the skin in your upper arm. It releases the hormone progesterone into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy and lasts for 3-5 years.
- IUD: intrauterine device is a ‘T” shaped copper instrument/object/device that is inserted into the uterus and blocks sperm from entering the fallopian tubes preventing pregnancy.
Side Effects of Family Planning
Like any medication, contraception can have side effects. These side effects can range from mild to severe, and not everyone experiences them. Some of the common side effects of contraception include:
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Weight gain
- Irregular bleeding
- Mood changes
This may require that an individual changes from one contraception to a different one that is more suited for them and their lifestyle.
Advantages of Family Planning
The advantages of family planning are numerous.
- It allows individuals to be in control of when and how many children they would like to have.
- When taken correctly, they’re highly effective. They protect against pregnancy better than most other birth control options.
- They can help regulate your menstrual cycle. This can be helpful for people with irregular or heavy periods.
- They’re reversible. When you stop taking them, your cycle will return to normal and you can get pregnant if you want to.
Disadvantages of Family Planning
One of the disadvantages of family planning is that some methods are not 100% effective, and unwanted pregnancies can still occur. In addition, some methods can have serious side effects that can affect a person’s health, such as blood clots or stroke.
Knowing the different types of contraceptives available to you allows you to make informed decisions about your reproductive help.
Understanding Family Planning: Myths, Facts, and Choices
Family planning is essential for many reasons, from controlling the timing and number of children to addressing specific health concerns. With a plethora of contraceptive options available, making an informed decision becomes critical. Moreover, sifting through the numerous myths and understanding the facts is equally crucial.
Debunking Common Family Planning Myths
- Contraceptives and Infertility: A widespread misconception is that contraceptives cause infertility. In reality, most contraceptives are reversible, and fertility typically returns once they’re discontinued.
- Responsibility Lies Only with Women: Contrary to this belief, men play a significant role in family planning. Both partners should engage in discussions and decisions.
- Only for Pregnancy Prevention: Family planning isn’t just about avoiding pregnancy. It can also guide couples looking to conceive, pinpointing optimal conception times.
Factors Guiding Contraceptive Choices
Choosing a contraceptive method isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. Various factors can influence this choice:
- Existing Health Concerns: Your current health status and any medications you’re taking can impact contraceptive effectiveness.
- Sexual Activity Frequency: Some methods may be better suited depending on the regularity of your sexual encounters.
- Duration Needs: Whether you’re exploring long-term or short-term methods can guide your decision.
- Comfort Level: Always opt for a method you’re comfortable using and aligns with your lifestyle.
In Summary
Navigating the family planning landscape can seem daunting, but equipped with accurate information and a clear understanding of your needs, you can make confident decisions. Remember, it’s always advisable to consult with healthcare professionals when considering any contraceptive method to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
Visit your nearest quadcare clinic or WhatsApp us 064 705 5087 for receive the contraceptive suitable for you
