Tema, Dec. 18, – Ms. Doris Ocansey, Adolescent Health Focal Person at the Tema Metropolitan Health Directorate, has warned adolescents and young people against the frequent use of emergency contraceptive pills, citing potential adverse health effects.
She explained that emergency contraceptives contain significantly higher levels of hormones compared with standard daily contraceptives and are intended for use only within 24 to 48 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse.
“Regular contraceptive pills are taken over a 28-day cycle, whereas emergency pills are not designed for repeated use,” she said, adding that frequent administration could result in menstrual irregularities and even affect future fertility.
Ms. Ocansey stressed that promoting abstinence remains critical, despite the sexual activity among youth. She noted that condoms and other contraceptives provide protection, with condoms offering dual protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies, though no method is 100 per cent effective.
She further highlighted the role of healthcare providers in responding to defilement and rape cases, providing immediate care including testing and treatment for infections, while social interventions, such as reporting to authorities, fall under the District Social Welfare Office.
Addressing abortion, Ms. Ocansey cautioned against unsafe practices, particularly among young girls, and warned that healthcare workers performing abortions privately are engaging in illegal activities. She urged colleagues to report such offences and called on the youth to seek care from proper health institutions rather than resorting to unsafe remedies.
GHBUSS
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