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News24
6 days ago
- General
- News24
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.
Kuwait News Agency
15-05-2025
- Health
- Kuwait News Agency
UN Population Fund warns of funding cut impact on Afghanistan
NEW YORK, May 15 (KUNA) -- An official of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) warned of the impacts of humanitarian funding cut on Afghanistan, saying that the recent U.S. decision to cut funding by more than USD 330 million has seriously affected Afghanistan. The United States has recently announced cuts of approximately USD 330 million to UNFPA worldwide, USD 102 million of which will directly impact UNFPA's work in Afghanistan, UNFPA Deputy Executive Director Andrew Saberton in a press statement at the UN late Wednesday. Most of this funding would have been used towards the provision of family health and mobile care, both of which are essential in Afghanistan, which already has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, he added. This funding would also have gone towards the providing much needed psychosocial support, Saberton added. He estimated that 6.9 million women and children in Afghanistan would be affected by the cuts, noting that the UNFPA would only be able to support approximately 400 of the current 900 health clinics that it supports in Afghanistan, each of which provides life-saving care. However, he underlined that the UNFPA would be staying to deliver, but said, "we need urgent support to keep these services running and to protect the dignity, health and lives of Afghan women and newborns". (end)
Al-Ahram Weekly
11-02-2025
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Celebrating youth entrepreneurship - Living - Al-Ahram Weekly
From 29 January to 8 February, the Cairo International Stadium was transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity, energy, and passion as the second edition of the Business Ya Shabab exhibition brought together Egypt's youth, industry leaders, international partners, and key figures, including Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouli, Ashraf Sobhi, minister of youth and sports, and Yasmine Fouad, minister of environment, to promote business opportunities among Egypt's young people. The exhibition highlighted Egypt's commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs. In collaboration with the UN Children's Fund UNICEF and UN Population Fund UNFPA, it featured hundreds of booths offering a wide range of products, from traditional crafts to modern innovations. However, it was not only a display of products, and instead it was a true celebration of youth, talent, and innovation. As visitors wandered through the bustling venue, the air was thick with excitement. The exhibition showcased hundreds of booths featuring an impressive array of products from intricate handcrafted leather goods and textiles to innovative, eco-friendly inventions that blended traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. But it wasn't just the products that stood out; it was the energy of the young people behind them – the dreamers, doers, and creators shaping Egypt's future. One of the first things visitors noticed was the diversity of what was on display. Mohamed Amin, a visitor from Alexandria, was particularly taken with the handmade jewelry section. 'I've never seen pieces like these before,' he said, admiring a delicate necklace crafted from copper and gemstones. 'It's a reminder of how much talent we have in this country. I'm definitely coming back to buy some.' The products ranged from traditional items like intricate pottery, woven rugs, and embroidered garments to forward-thinking innovations such as solar-powered gadgets and biodegradable packaging. The exhibition wasn't just about what was for sale either; it was about showcasing Egypt's rich heritage while embracing the future. The diversity of offerings represented a new generation of Egyptians who were not only honouring their culture but also pushing it forward. Among the booths, one could hear the hum of conversation between participants and customers, many of whom were eager to connect and share their stories. For Heba Tarek, a young fashion designer showcasing sustainable clothing, this was an invaluable opportunity. 'I found out about Business Ya Shabab through a friend who had participated last time. She kept telling me about how incredible the platform was for networking and visibility. I knew this could be the perfect chance to share my work with a wider audience,' Tarek said, her eyes bright with excitement. 'I'm passionate about sustainable fashion, and I wanted to show that it's possible to create beautiful, stylish pieces without harming the environment. It's been a dream come true to showcase my designs here.' A few steps away, Amir Hassan, a 28-year-old from Upper Egypt, was enthusiastically discussing his handmade leather wallets with a potential buyer. 'I've been making these since I was 14,' he explained. 'My family has been in the leather business for generations, but I wanted to bring something fresh and modern to the tradition. When I heard about Business Ya Shabab last year, I didn't hesitate to apply. I saw it as a chance not just to sell my work, but to learn from other entrepreneurs and expand my network,' Hassan said. 'It's been amazing to see how people appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each wallet. For me, it's not just about the product; it's about telling the story of our heritage through my designs.' A TMOSPHERE: Visitors weren't just shopping, as they were also experiencing the atmosphere. The space was filled with the rich aroma of freshly baked pastries from a local youth-run bakery and the sound of laughter and conversation. Everywhere you looked, you could spot young entrepreneurs engaged in passionate discussions with buyers and other vendors, exchanging ideas, collaborating, and celebrating their shared entrepreneurial spirit. Sarah Ahmed, a university student and first-time visitor to the event, spoke about the experience with enthusiasm. 'It was incredible to see so many young people showcasing their work and hustling to make their dreams come true. I first heard about Business Ya Shabab from my cousin, who's been talking about it for weeks. She told me it was a great opportunity to support local entrepreneurs, so I decided to come and see for myself,' she said. Ahmed was particularly excited to buy a few handcrafted items and some organic skincare products. 'There's a real sense of pride in what they're doing, and it's inspiring to see. I think this exhibition is an amazing way to support young talent and bring awareness to local businesses,' she added. Beyond the marketplace, there was a tangible sense of community. Business Ya Shabab had more to offer than just shopping, since it was a gathering place for people to connect and learn from one another. Workshops on marketing, financial management, and product development were held throughout the event, providing practical tools for young entrepreneurs looking to take their ventures to the next level. One such workshop was led by Ahmed Hassan, an experienced entrepreneur who had launched his own sustainable furniture brand. 'It's all about making connections and building your brand,' he said during one of his sessions. 'Events like this are not just for selling products; they're about creating lasting relationships that help grow your business,' he said. While the exhibition was filled with bustling activity and youthful energy, there was also a deeper sense of purpose that permeated the event. Mariam Al-Gamal, a 30-year-old fashion designer specialising in eco-friendly clothing, summed it up perfectly: 'I first heard about Business Ya Shabab when I was still in the early stages of launching my brand. A mentor recommended that I apply because of the exposure and support it would offer. When I got in, I felt so excited as I knew this was the opportunity I had been waiting for.' 'This event is so much more than a showcase of products. It's a movement. We're showing that Egypt's youth are capable of not just surviving but thriving in today's economy. We're proving that we can create businesses that support both the environment and the local economy,' Al-Gamal said. The products on display were undeniably impressive, but it was the spirit of the participants that truly made the event special. The exhibition was not just about promoting products but about promoting a vision – one of Egypt's youth driving the country's future through entrepreneurship. For Mona Abdel-Rahman, a visitor from Cairo, it was clear that the event was helping to shift the national mindset towards supporting local talent. 'I'm so impressed with the creativity and hard work that's gone into these products. We need to invest in our youth and their businesses. They're the future of this country,' she said. The variety of products was also staggering. There were home goods, agricultural products, and cutting-edge technologies. One booth, showcasing organic agricultural products, offered everything from honey and olive oil to dried herbs and spices. Tamer Youssef, the owner of the booth, spoke about the significance of his work. 'We've been farming the land for generations, but now we're focusing on sustainability and innovation. These products are as much about preserving our heritage as they are about improving the way we live today,' he said. What stood out most, however, was the palpable sense of optimism that filled the air. It was clear that the exhibition had not only provided a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their work but had also ignited a sense of pride in both the participants and visitors. This was a celebration of Egypt's future – a future driven by young, determined, and passionate entrepreneurs ready to change the world. As the exhibition came to a close, the buzz in the air remained. Participants and visitors alike were already looking ahead to the next edition, hopeful for even greater opportunities to connect, grow, and share their stories. Mariam Al-Gamal echoed the sentiment perfectly. 'We're just getting started. The future of Egyptian entrepreneurship is bright,' she said. * A version of this article appears in print in the 13 February, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly Short link:
Zawya
05-02-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): UN call to reopen Goma airport ‘lifeline', as crisis deepens
'Goma airport is a lifeline,' said Bruno Lemarquis. 'Without it, the evacuation of the seriously injured, the delivery of medical supplies and the reception of humanitarian reinforcements are paralyzed.' Growing casualties The M23 armed group, supported by Rwandan troops, seized the airport last week as its fighters swept through Goma – the regional capital of North Kivu. Several hundred people have reportedly been killed in the hostilities, with tens of thousands more forced to flee their homes. Rebels have seized control of large areas of Goma, setting up checkpoints and severely restricting humanitarian access, according to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA). This has disrupted the delivery of food, water, and medical aid for up to two million people. Humanitarian workers also face restricted access to displacement camps, limiting the provision of essential services, including emergency obstetric care. An absolute emergency Mr. Lemarquis urged all parties to 'shoulder their responsibilities' and facilitate the immediate reopening of the airport. 'Every hour lost puts more lives at risk. This is an absolute emergency. All those involved must act without delay to enable humanitarian flights to resume operations and guarantee access to relief supplies,' he stressed. 'The survival of thousands of people depends on it.' Sexual violence 'tragically routine' Meanwhile, UN Women, the Organization's lead agency for protection of women and girls, warned that reports of sexual violence and exploitation have become 'tragically routine.' 'As the clashes unfold in a country that has endured prolonged instability, women and girls are bearing the brunt of both direct and indirect consequences, with their rights, safety, and dignity increasingly under threat,' said the agency's Sofia Calltorp, Chief of Humanitarian Action, briefing journalists in Geneva. Local women's organizations have reported widespread sexual violence, forced displacement, and severe gaps in basic social as well as protection services. With the situation worsening, UN Women called for immediate action by State and non-state actors in DRC as well as the wider international community to combat sexual and gender-based violence and end impunity for perpetrators. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.
Express Tribune
05-02-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
USAID cut to hit Pakistan, BD & Afghanistan hard
GENEVA: A key UN health agency warned on Tuesday that Washington's aid cut could see 1,200 more women die from pregnancy and birth-linked causes in Afghanistan through 2028. Shortly after his inauguration last month, Trump signed an executive order implementing a 90-day pause in US foreign development aid. His administration later issued waivers for food and other humanitarian aid, but aid workers say that the impact is already being felt by some of the world's most vulnerable. In response, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) "has suspended services funded by US grants that provide a lifeline for women and girls in crises, including in South Asia", said Pio Smith, the UN sexual and reproductive health agency's regional director for Asia and the Pacific. "We're pretty concerned about that substantial loss in funding," he told reporters in Geneva. He said the situation was particularly dramatic in Afghanistan, where a mother already dies from preventable pregnancy complications every two hours, making it one of the deadliest countries in the world for women to give birth. For Afghanistan, "between 2025 and 2028 we estimate that the absence of US support will result in 1,200 additional maternal deaths and 109,000 additional unintended pregnancies", Smith said. "We've been working on the understanding that, like previous Republican administrations... the agency would be defunded," Smith acknowledged, saying efforts had been made to mitigate the risk. But Smith said the agency had not expected the United States to halt funds already committed to UNFPA by the giant USAID humanitarian agency, which it has now done. The stop order, he said "is for funds that have already been committed to the agency, and what we see is that programmes that have been focusing on maternal and reproductive health and psychosocial support will be affected". Just in his region, Smith said "UNFPA requires over $308 million this year to sustain essential services in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan".
