Why Four Nigerian Women Are Choosing to Avoid Contraceptives

Only 18% of Nigeria’s women use modern birth control despite its availability. Cost, medical conditions and fear of side effects keep many from using pills, implants or emergency options. Derin, who has PCOS and weighs over 80kg, was told emergency pills may not work for her. Agnes avoids all contraception because of irregular periods, a family history of endometriosis and high costs. Joy was denied any form of birth control at a hospital and now relies solely on cycle tracking and withdrawal. Aishat fears the hormonal side effects she’s heard about and prefers withdrawal despite frequent pregnancy scares. Obstetricians recommend combined pills for PCOS management, water-based lubricants to ease condom use, IUDs to relieve endometriosis symptoms and accurate cycle tracking for those unwilling to use hormones. Health workers must respect every woman’s right to reproductive care.

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