Contraception in Guinea: a subject still taboo despite public health issues

Lack of information, difficulties of access, socio-cultural prejudices... Family planning remains a major challenge in Guinea. General practitioner Dr Ben Yousouf KEÏTA warns of this worrying reality and calls for better awareness.

In Guinea, despite the availability of several contraceptive methods (pills, implants, injections, condoms, etc.), contraception remains a sensitive subject. According to Dr Ben Yousouf KEÏTA, contraception “consists of avoiding an unwanted pregnancy”, whether hormonal or mechanical.

It constitutes an essential tool for reproductive health, particularly in the fight against early pregnancies and maternal complications.

However, the latest 2018 Demographic Demand Program (DHS) report reveals a low rate of communication on family planning: only 3% of non-user women had been contacted by field agents, and 4% of women who visited a health facility had discussed this subject.

The benefits of contraception

Family planning is not just about preventing unwanted pregnancies. It also plays a major role in reducing the risks associated with clandestine abortions and in spacing births, which helps protect maternal health. It also represents a means of emancipation for women, by giving them more autonomy in their life choices, and contributes to the fight against sexually transmitted infections, in particular through the use of condoms.

For Dr KEÏTA: “contraception is a fundamental right. It allows women and couples to better organize their family life and preserve their health. »

He also emphasizes that: “Pregnancies tire women and can put their lives at risk. Unlike men, women have menopause which limits their fertility, hence the importance of contraceptive methods. »

Persistent obstacles

Despite its many benefits, contraception remains hampered by well-known obstacles. Religious and sociocultural beliefs continue to influence family choices. The lack of reliable information fuels hesitation, while the fear of side effects, real or supposed, slows down the adoption of these methods. Added to this are economic and logistical difficulties which limit access to contraceptive products.

Dr KEÏTA insists on the need for dialogue within the couple before any decision. According to him: “It is important for women to ensure their family situation before using any contraceptive method. The intrauterine device, for example, must be inserted during menstruation or just afterward, before any intercourse. »

He also recommends a prior consultation with a gynecologist or midwife.

Towards better awareness

Health authorities and development partners are increasing information campaigns, but the results remain limited. According to data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) Program, among women who visited a health facility, only 4% discussed family planning, compared to 41% who did not.

According to Dr KEÏTA, the solution involves earlier and more appropriate education: “We need sex education for adolescents and young adults. The more informed they are, the more responsible decisions they will make. »

Contraception therefore remains a central public health issue in Guinea, where breaking taboos and raising awareness are essential to protect the lives and health of women.

Issa Barry