As Government, non governmental organizations and other institutions continue to advocate for the use of contraceptives especially among women, they should also see it as their duty to educate the users on the side effects of these contraceptives and how to deal with them.

Medications to deliberately control childbirth or reduce the likelihood of unexpected pregnancies could be dangerous, especially when without expert's advice.

These medications come in different forms. There are products for the prevention of the fertilization of the ovum by sperm cells (Contraceptive) and the prevention of implantation (Contraception) of the blastocyst, a structure formed in the early embryogenesis of mammals, after the formation of the morula. Blastocyst formation begins at day five (5) after fertilasation in humans.

One may decide to combine the natural method, that is, the employing the monthly safe and unsafe periods which is regarded as the most popular form of birth control, and the oral or contraceptive pills.

But I think the natural method and the condom use are the best options. The natural method stands out because it has no side effects, and the condoms do not only prevent pregnancy but also provide significant protection from sexually transmitted diseases.

There are a number of side effects and potential health risks associated with most of these contraceptives. These include dizziness, headaches, stomach upset, bloating, nausea, weight gain, tender breast, among others.

Research has it that contraceptives have negative effects on the cervix. Pregnancy counteracts the normal ageing process and actually has a rejuvenating effect on the cervix such that the cervix of a 33-year old woman becomes like that of a 20-year old. Contraceptives after long term use among women have a reverse effect making the cervix of a 33-year-old woman become like that of a 45-year old as the cervical canal becomes narrower. Also the risk of breast cancer for young women is 200%-480% higher than for non-Pill or contraceptive users.

How many people know that women who smoke and use contraceptives at the same time are at the risk of getting stroke or cancers? These challenges make it more compelling for intensive education on contraceptives use.

Last Monday, August 23, the Minister of Health, Dr. Benjamin Kunbour on behalf of the Vice President, re-launched the use of contraceptives. But what was missing from the various presentations made at the function was the silence on side effects of contraceptives.

It is a known fact that some of these can cause delay in pregnancy when the user finally decides to have children. All drugs have side effects but we should be careful with contraceptives since their side effects could have far reaching consequences.

I think those who use these contraceptives have the right to know their adverse effects. They have the right to know what they put into their systems by way of medications.