Strict regulations on access to birth control methods contribute to unintended pregnancies not only among young girls but also among older women.
The birth control methods may be available at the national reserves, in this case Kemsa, but due to regulations they cannot be freely sold in the pharmacies without a prescription.
Limited availability of birth control methods puts women and girls on the receiving end. Implants, which are the most effective and can be used over a long period of time, are in demand but are unavailable.
There is need therefore for the Ministry of Health to revise the regulations and make contraceptives available.
Availability of birth control methods has many advantages. Birth control reduces poverty. Where pregnancy is planned, basic needs, including financial, are easily met.
Girls will also remain in school if they are able to prevent unintended pregnancy, the result being women who can make decisions on their own.
Kenya will be happy to see more women MPs and will also be excited to go into history as having a woman president, but this will only be achieved if we address factors such as good health and wellbeing as well as gender issues.
Having policies that will support availability of birth control methods will therefore serve an important role in ensuring women continue with education, poverty is reduced and everyone remains in good health.
Network for Adolescent and Youth of Africa
