Planning for a better future

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - A recent small group survey conducted at local clinics in Alma and D'Almeida found the majority of the respondents, between 21 and 30 years of age, were not using any form of contraception.

The First 1 000 days initiative focuses on the health of mother and child from conception until the child is two years of age.

Parents are encouraged to "start caring for your child before birth", making family planning the foundation of the First 1 000 days.

Evidence shows that spacing your children three to five years apart significantly improves their chance of survival.

Planning your family allows teenagers and young adults to complete their education and have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Community health workers, trained by the Department of Health, are based within the community. healthcare providers are able to share information on contraception choices, provide pamphlets and indicate how and where to access contraception services.

Contraception is available free of charge at all government healthcare facilities. Some pharmacies and private doctors have partnerships with the government, allowing them to provide contraception for free, however, a nominal consultation fee will be charged.

Contraception choices
Some women do not use contraception because they are not aware of the different choice of methods available. It is important that women are actively involved in the choice of contraception method they will use.

It is important to understand contraceptive methods, other than condoms, do not prevent sexually transmitted infections.

For this reason dual protection, using condoms and a contraception method is the safest option. Don't be misled by myths and old wives tales.

Here are the facts:
Oral Contraceptives: Commonly known as "the pill", this method must be taken every day. There are different types of pill; a trained healthcare provider will prescribe the one most suited to your needs.

Once you stop taking the pill you can get pregnant immediately if you have unprotected sex.

Implant: A small rod (the size of a match) that is inserted under the skin on the inside of the upper arm, by a trained healthcare provider. This method lasts for three years but it can be removed earlier if you choose. When the implant is removed you can get pregnant immediately if you have unprotected sex.

Injectable Contraceptives: The injection is given by a trained healthcare provider. There are two types: one that lasts for eight weeks (two months), the other for 12 weeks (three months).

Once you stop the injection it could take up to one year before you are able to get pregnant. However, every individual responds differently.

It is possible to fall pregnant soon after stopping the injection.

Intrauterine Device: Also knows as the loop or coil. A small T-shaped device is placed in the uterus by a trained healthcare provider.

Depending on the type of device the IUD lasts five or 10 years. This method does not contain any hormones so is ideal for women who are already on chronic medication.

When the IUD is removed you can get pregnant immediately if you have unprotected sex.

Condoms: Both male and female condoms are available at all healthcare facilities. They are the only contraceptive method that helps prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections. Use a new condom every time you have sex.

Sterilisation: This is considered a permanent method for people who do not wish to have more children. It is a simple surgical operation for males (called a vasectomy) or females, done by a trained healthcare provider.

It can take up to three months for male sterilisation to work in preventing pregnancy.

Emergency Contraception: Helps prevent pregnancy when taken within five days after having unprotected sex (for example, if the condom broke, you did not use your chosen contraceptive method correctly or were forced to have sex without protection).