This increased use reflects a major health success that has enabled millions of young people to avoid unwanted pregnancy and choose their future, but UNFPA said that “for far too many young people, the basic human right to choose whether or not to have children continues to be compromised.”
“Contraceptives save lives”
According to UNFPA, the unavailability of contraception leads to an increase in unwanted pregnancies and maternal death rates due to unsafe abortions.
The consequences extend far beyond health, contributing to an increase in teenage pregnancies, school dropouts and an increased risk of gender-based violence.
“Contraceptives save lives,” reiterated Diene Keita, executive director of UNPA.
In addition, they also generate significant economic benefits.
“Every dollar spent to address unmet need for contraception generates almost $27 in economic benefits,” Ms. Keita said.
A peer educator speaks to a group of sex workers in Bangladesh about the benefits of using condoms.
Here are five common myths about contraception.
1. Contraception is dangerous
Modern forms of contraception are among the “most prescribed and best-studied” medications, according to UNFPA.
The health risks associated with an unintended pregnancy are “significantly higher” than any recommended method of contraception.
2. Using contraception can cause abortion
Contraceptives do not cause abortion or miscarriage; they work by preventing fertilization or ovulation – thus preventing pregnancy from occurring in the first place.
3. Contraception harms your fertility
Contraceptives do not cause infertility. Some hormonal methods (such as injectables) may temporarily delay the resumption of ovulation and menstruation, but they do not cause permanent infertility.
4. Natural family planning methods are safer than hormonal methods
Nowadays, alternative methods of contraception are becoming very popular on social media: cycle tracking methods, fertility awareness methods (i.e. daily temperature checks).
These “natural methods” are “significantly less likely to prevent pregnancy,” UNFPA stressed. “The most effective methods of contraception are modern methods. »
5. You shouldn’t use contraception if you’re single or your partner doesn’t want it
Research shows that young people with access to information and services related to sexual and reproductive health do not increase their sexual activity.
Instead, it gives them the information they need to make responsible decisions.
“Every individual has the right to decide whether or not to become pregnant,” UNFPA said.
No one should ever be pressured to have unprotected sex – a form of reproductive coercion that UNFPA says constitutes abuse.
