By: Cynthia Soita
“Why do families struggling to afford food, school fees, and rent often have the most children?” It sounds ironic — but it’s a reality many Kenyan households face.
According to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (2022), about 9 in 10 married women are involved in family planning decisions—half make the decision jointly with their husbands, while 42% decide independently. Only 8% say the choice is made by their husband or someone else. Women's participation is highest in Nairobi and Nyamira (98%) and lowest in Mandera (61%).
In communities with no pensions, no insurance, and no reliable public support, children become a form of social security. The more you have, the greater your chances one will "make it" and provide for the rest.
Cultural and religious expectations also reinforce this pattern. In many households, motherhood is viewed as a woman’s success story, and large families are seen as blessed — not burdened.
Unfortunately, lack of access to sex education and family planning services often means these births are not deliberate choices but the result of societal neglect.
Despite modern advancements, the fear of contraceptives persists, especially among unmarried women. Many worry about health risks, but most concerns stem from deep-rooted myths.
Fear of infertility, cancer, or weight gain is widespread — but mostly unfounded.
For single women, the fear goes beyond health. It includes shame, being judged at the clinic, or being misunderstood as promiscuous. In conservative communities, seeking birth control can damage a woman’s reputation.
Even when contraceptives are free in public hospitals, the fear of being labeled — or misinformed — keeps many away. The result? Early pregnancies that shape the course of a woman’s life before it even begins.
Family planning allows couples and individuals to decide if, when, and how many children to have. It's more than a medical issue — it’s an investment in personal and economic freedom.
Spacing pregnancies reduces maternal and infant mortality. According to WHO, spacing children at least two years apart reduces infant deaths by 10–20%. That’s a life-changing margin.
Women who plan their families can pursue education, grow careers, and recover physically between births. Men, too, benefit from lower financial strain and stronger relationships built on communication and planning.
Family planning empowers households to offer better quality of life: from nutritious food and school fees to time, love, and care. Smaller families can thrive where larger ones merely survive.
Women have diverse options to prevent pregnancy — some daily, some monthly, and others lasting for years.
Pills are widely used but must be taken daily to work effectively. They are reversible and give women personal control, but some may experience mood shifts or bleeding irregularities.
Injections like Depo-Provera offer three months of protection. Ideal for those who prefer fewer visits and private use, though some may gain weight or experience delayed fertility return.
Implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs) provide 3–10 years of protection. These long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are over 99% effective and popular among women who want "set-and-forget" convenience.
Permanent methods like tubal ligation are an option for women done with childbearing. Though it’s a big decision, it gives lasting peace of mind.
Men may have fewer birth control choices, but their involvement matters just as much.
Condoms are the most common method, offering dual protection against pregnancy and STIs. They’re affordable, easy to use, and essential in non-monogamous relationships.
Withdrawal, while frequently used, is unreliable. It requires perfect timing, which is difficult in reality. Many unplanned pregnancies occur due to its failure.
Vasectomy, a minor outpatient surgery, is a permanent option for men who are done having children. It doesn’t affect libido or masculinity, but social stigma remains a barrier.
Shared responsibility in family planning creates stronger, more respectful partnerships. It’s time we normalize men taking initiative too.
Each birth control method has its pros and cons. Choosing one depends on lifestyle, health, and personal preference.
Hormonal methods (pills, implants, injections) are highly effective but may cause weight change, headaches, or mood swings. They’re reversible and suitable for different life stages.
Non-hormonal options like copper IUDs don’t alter hormones but might increase period flow. Barrier methods like condoms prevent infections but can tear or slip if not used correctly.
Natural methods are hormone-free but require discipline and careful tracking. They're ideal for those with regular cycles and supportive partners.
The key is to find what fits best. No method is perfect — but the right one can change a life.
Like any medication, contraceptives can have side effects. Most are mild and manageable, but some may need switching methods.
Pills may cause breast tenderness, nausea, or mood changes. Injections might delay fertility after stopping. IUDs can increase cramping or bleeding initially.
Hormonal fluctuations can affect libido, skin, or emotions. Some users report feeling “off” or different after starting certain methods.
If side effects persist or disrupt daily life, it’s okay to switch. Family planning isn’t one-size-fits-all — your comfort matters.
Natural birth control involves understanding your body’s rhythms — no hormones, no devices.
Fertility awareness methods track ovulation signs like basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and cycle days. When practiced correctly, they’re up to 98% effective.
The Standard Days Method works for women with regular cycles, avoiding unprotected sex on fertile days. Couples need strong communication and mutual commitment.
These methods demand consistency, patience, and self-awareness. They’re affordable and side-effect free, but not forgiving of errors.
Some users claim that birth control changed how they relate emotionally or physically to their partners. Could hormones really affect attraction?
Research suggests that hormonal contraceptives might slightly shift women's preferences — even smell-based attraction — due to changes in hormone balance.
Still, emotional connection is complex. Stress, communication, unmet needs, and life changes also influence relationships. Contraceptives may play a role — but they’re rarely the sole cause.
If you notice a shift in your emotions, talk to a provider. Sometimes switching methods is all it takes to feel balanced again.
Choosing the right birth control isn’t just medical — it’s personal. Ask yourself:
Do I want short-term or long-term protection?
Am I okay with hormonal changes?
Do I want something private or partner-involved?
How important is STI protection to me?
What method fits my values, schedule, and goals?
No matter your answers, the best method is the one that supports your body, your choices, and your future.
Which contraceptive is the best?
The best method depends on your needs — but IUDs and implants are among the most effective and low-maintenance.
What are natural methods of birth control?
They include calendar tracking, cervical mucus observation, and basal body temperature monitoring to avoid fertile days.
Which birth control has the least side effects?
Condoms and natural methods have the fewest side effects. Hormonal IUDs and implants are also well-tolerated by many.
Related article: Sex Education: Why Comprehensive Knowledge Can No Longer Be Ignored
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