Kilifi County Sets Example with 48% Contraceptive Usage; 62.5% of Married Kenyan Women use Contraception, Reveals 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey
Family planning offers significant benefits, including preventing unintended pregnancies among married women and teenagers, and contributing to better maternal and child health outcomes.
1.4M Kenyans living with HIV,Youth aged 15-49 contribute the New Infections as they shun use of Condoms For Postinor 2 (P2) Pills./ Photo Courtesy UNICEF CHAD
By Vivian Cheptoo
According to 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) revealed the positive developments in family planning. The survey found that 62.5% of married Kenyan women aged 15-49 utilize contraceptive methods, demonstrating a growing acceptance of family planning as a crucial reproductive health strategy.
While national figures are encouraging, disparities exist across counties. Kilifi county leads the way with a 48% contraceptive use rate, while Mandera county lags behind at only 2.1%. This highlights the critical need for improved access to family planning resources and education in these areas
Family planning offers significant benefits, including preventing unintended pregnancies among married women and teenagers, and contributing to better maternal and child health outcomes.
However, usage of some contraceptive pills have side effects such as nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding, changes in sexual desire and appetite, weight gain, reduce libido, abdominal cramping, vaginal discharge, cornea thickening and related eye problems .
Additionally, long-term taking of contraceptives pills can lead to potential health risks such as cervical cancer.
However, addressing the disparities between counties is essential to ensure equitable access for all Kenyans. Open communication between healthcare providers and patients is crucial to empower informed decision-making regarding contraceptive options and potential side effects.
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