In rural Ghana, women are gaining more control over their reproductive health through the use of long-acting contraception methods such as hormonal implants and injections. These methods are becoming increasingly popular among women in remote areas as they provide discretion and autonomy.
At the Kwapong Health Centre, community health nurse Beatrice Nyamekye is busy providing women with contraceptive implants and three-month hormonal injections to prevent pregnancy. Most women prefer these long-lasting methods as they free them from worry and allow for privacy. This trend is not unique to Kwapong but is seen across Ghana and much of sub-Saharan Africa, where access to contraception has historically been low.
According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), only 26 percent of women of reproductive age in sub-Saharan Africa are currently using a modern contraceptive method. However, the number of women using modern contraception in the region has nearly doubled over the past decade, reaching 66 million. This increase is attributed to the availability of fast, affordable, and discreet contraceptive options that empower women to take control of their reproductive health.
Esi Asare Prah, who works for MSI, a reproductive health nonprofit in Ghana, emphasizes the progress that has been made in expanding access to contraception for women in the region. She predicts that in the near future, a significant number of women will have access to these essential services, further enhancing their reproductive autonomy.
Overall, the shift towards long-acting contraception methods is transforming the landscape of women’s health in Africa, enabling women to make informed choices about their reproductive futures. The increasing availability of these methods not only promotes gender equality but also contributes to improved maternal and child health outcomes in the region. As access to contraception continues to expand, more women will have the opportunity to plan their families, pursue education and career goals, and ultimately lead healthier and more empowered lives.