By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kim Feh
Published on 2024-02-08 14:49:06
In December 2023, Douala, the economic capital of Cameroon, saw an unprecedented increase in the sales of the morning-after pill, making it the most sought-after pharmaceutical product of the month. Pharmacies experienced a sudden depletion of stock as individuals turned to emergency contraception following instances of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
A pharmacist in Douala stated, “We have never seen such a demand for this pill before,” reflecting the overwhelming trend experienced by many neighborhood pharmacies.
La Voix du Kwat, a prominent blog in Cameroon, initially reported the widespread scarcity of the morning-after pill in the region during that period. “Our stock emptied in December 2023; the story is the same for the neighboring pharmacy,” stated a source quoted by the blog.
The morning-after pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a medication designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, with its most effective window being within 72 hours, but still viable up to 120 hours later.
Increased sales of the morning-after pill in Douala underscore the urgent need for improved sex education and enhanced access to contraceptives. Many individuals may lack knowledge on the effective use of contraception or face obstacles in obtaining it, leading to unintended pregnancies with potentially serious consequences for women’s health and wellbeing.
Josiane, a local resident, shared her experience with Voix de Kwat, stating, “I use it after unprotected sex. I was using it with my ex-boyfriend during the holidays.” Her testimony sheds light on the importance of both comprehensive sex education and accessibility to contraception methods.
“I am not ready to get pregnant now,” emphasized Josiane, echoing the sentiments of many who seek emergency contraception as a crucial preventive measure.
It is important to note that the morning-after pill is not a regular form of contraception and should only be used as a backup method. Sexually active individuals are encouraged to consult with their doctors to identify a regular form of contraception that suits their needs.
In addition to its use as a backup method, here are some key considerations about the morning-after pill:
– It is not 100% effective.
– It can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
– It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Editor’s Note: If there are any questions or concerns regarding the morning-after pill, individuals are advised to consult with their healthcare professionals for personalized guidance. The surge in sales in Douala serves as a stark reminder of the importance of promoting sexual health education and ensuring widespread access to contraception to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
