6 days ago
Still searching for the right birth control? You're not alone and here's why
Unintended pregnancies remain high in SA, with 81 out of every 1 000 women affected.
Misinformation on social media is leading women to make uninformed contraceptive choices.
A wide range of contraceptive methods exists, each with unique benefits and possible side effects.
In a country where nearly one in every 10 women of reproductive age experience an unintended pregnancy, it's clear that something is not adding up, and it's not just about access to contraception.
For many women, the real barrier to effective contraception lies in a haze of misinformation, fear and societal pressure.
According to the UN Population Fund's State of the World Population 2022 report, 81 out of every 1 000 South African women aged 15 to 49 experienced an unintended pregnancy between 2015 and 2019. That's well above the global average of 64 per 1 000.
But the issue isn't just about young girls falling pregnant in rural villages or women without access to clinics. Urban, educated and digitally connected women are also making misinformed decisions, often based on what they have heard from their peers or read on social media.
Pretoria resident Mpho Mashiane (27) said social media heavily influenced her decision-making on contraception.
I wanted something long-term, but I kept seeing videos on TikTok about how the IUD [intrauterine device] moves around inside you and even 'gets lost' in your body. I got scared and decided to just use condoms and hope for the best.
Mpho Mashiane
Dr Caitlin Hegter, a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist at the Mediclinic Kloof Hospital in Pretoria, said such stories are concerning but common.
In today's world, it may seem like we have all the information we need at our fingertips, especially through social media. But much of this information is unreliable and not based on evidence, leading many women to receive advice that may not be in their best interests.
Dr Caitlin Hegter
She outlined the major contraceptive options available, explaining they fall into two broad categories: hormonal and non-hormonal. These include barrier methods (such as condoms and diaphragms), long-acting reversible contraceptives such as implants and injectables, IUDs, emergency contraception, and permanent methods such as sterilisation.
Hegter explained:
When selecting a contraceptive method, there are various factors to consider, including effectiveness, convenience and possible side effects. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each woman's medical history and personal preferences should guide the decision. Some health conditions, such as a history of blood clots, may make certain hormonal options unsuitable.
She also stressed the importance of shared responsibility.
'Contraceptive responsibility should not fall solely on women; male options such as condoms and a vasectomy should be considered as part of the conversation.'
A persistent myth Hegter often encounters is that contraceptives cause infertility.
She said:
The misconception that using contraceptives for years makes it difficult to conceive is one of the biggest myths. Most women will regain their natural fertility levels once they stop using contraception.
She added that many people are unaware that contraceptives are used to treat more than just unwanted pregnancies. 'We often use the same methods, such as the pill or the Mirena, to treat other gynaecological conditions as well.'
Thandeka Mavundla, a sexual and reproductive health activist based in KwaZulu-Natal, believes a major problem lies in outdated and incomplete sexual education.
'We're still stuck at teaching teenagers how to put a condom on a banana, while grown women are making life-altering decisions based on YouTube comments,' Mavundla said.
'We need comprehensive, age-appropriate and evolving education about contraception, not just once in life orientation [school lessons] but ongoing, such as mental health.'
When it comes to guidance, Hegter encourages women to consult with healthcare professionals and not rely solely on social media or peer advice.
She said:
Articles such as this one play an important role in educating women, but it's also vital to seek guidance from trusted healthcare professionals when deciding which form of contraceptive is best suited to you. And if you ever feel unsure about your options or current contraceptive, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion.
Because, when it comes to something as important as your body, your health and your future, facts, not fear, should lead the way.
