World Contraception Day: Making The Right Choice Every Second
By Oyewale Oyelola
“A choice for all. Freedom to plan, power to choose.” is the theme for 2024 World Contraception Day. September 26 is a day set aside globally to create awareness about family planning through contraception.
The conversation around family planning is gaining traction among different strata and class in the society.
Hence, there is need for continuous engagement and advocacy on need to adopt the safety and compatible family planning method(s) by individual.
This year’s theme highlights that every individual must be guaranteed the freedom to protect their reproductive health and to plan their family, access to contraception to bodily autonomy, and achieve one’s full potential. It also helps reduce adolescent births, prevent maternal deaths, and further gender equality.
For records, the word contraception is the combination of the words “contra” (against) and “conception” (the process of conceiving in the womb). Methods of contraceptives include oral contraceptive pills, implants, injectables, patches, vaginal rings, intrauterine devices, condoms, male and female sterilization, lactational amenorrhea methods, withdrawal, and methods based on fertility awareness.
As we mark 2024 World Contraception Day, it’s germine to note that family planning is indeed a choice for all and everybody must be deliberate about making the choice. For instance, people who prefer usage of condoms properly in order not to allow seconds of distraction affect their lives. This is also applicable to other methods of contraception.
It’s therefore essential to spread awareness of various contraceptive options to individuals, especially young men and women, regarding Family Planning and Reproductive Health.
To this end, both male and female of reproductive age should be deliberate and intentional about their choice. We should also promote open discussions in the global population about the indications of contraceptives, promote the rights of women, and promote gender equality worldwide.
To build a safer world, it’s imperative to raise awareness, correct stereotypes/misconceptions and contraception available as well accessible to ALL irrespective of their economic status. Let’s continue make the right choice at every second!