UNWANTED PREGNANCY

When a woman find herself pregnant and not planning to have a baby

CAUSES/REASONS

5. Not taking any preventive measures
5. No condom usage
5. Method failure
5. Poor compliance when on oral contraceptive
6. Lack of information on how method works
5. Fear—because of the experiences of others
5. Religious beliefs against contraception
5. Discontinuing method when experiencing side effects
5. Partner not allowing his wife/girlfriend to use contraceptives (especially ‘sugar daddies’)
5. Shortage of contraceptives, for whatever reason—suppliers, clinic hours that are not favourable for clients

MYTHS RELATED TO CONTRACEPTIVES

5. That one will not conceive when planning a baby in future—contraceptives make people sterile
5. Weight gain
5. Males saying the methods are harming them
5. No pleasure when using condoms
6. Belief that one cannot fall pregnant with the first sexual act
5. Use of pills only when about to have sex
5. Belief that contraceptives also prevent HIV and STIs

FACTS ABOUT CONTRACEPTION

5. Any method can be used by anyone (it is  the client’s choice), as long as there are no contra-indications.
5. There is no danger/sterility associated with contraceptive methods.
5. One can easily fall pregnant by the first encounter.
5. Methods affect female reproduction; there is no way that they can be transmitted to males.
6. Consistency is important when on a method. Report to the clinic, rather than stopping, if you experience side effects.
5. Weight gain is not directly associated with the methods, but they may cause increased appetite. Clients are given information related to the method chosen.
5. Clients do not need anyone’s permission to use contraceptives (parents/husbands/boyfriends). This is protected by family planning laws, acts, and policies.

NB: Abstinence is the best method.

Are you pregnant and confused?

5. Contact/visit Crossroads

Venue: Room 1-28, DSA Building

Days: Tuesday, Thursday

Time: 09:00–13:00

5. To arrange an appointment, contact Student Health Services

(tel: 012 420 2500, email: [email protected]) or Student Counselling Unit (tel: 012 420 2333).

NB: Currently, during lockdown, the Crossroads contact details are as follows:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 076 324 5565

WhatsApp: 082 660 0554

Review your knowledge

Questions:

1. Can a nurse/practitioner choose a method for the client?
2. Can you use contraception at any age?
3. Do contraceptive methods prevent HIV and STIs?
4. Do you know what to do or where to get help when you are pregnant and confused at TUKS?

Answers:

1. Any method can be used by anyone (it is the client’s choice), as long as there are no contra-indications.

2. You do not need anyone’s permission to use contraceptives (parents/husbands/boyfriends). This is protected by FP laws, acts, and policies. One can easily fall pregnant by the first encounter.

3. NO! You need to use condoms!

4. Contact or visit Crossroads Pregnancy Help Centre Counselling Services.