Family planning is more than a reproductive issue — it is a pathway to improved health and long-term societal benefits.
By enabling individuals and couples to make informed choices about when to have children, both parents and their unborn babies will enjoy better physical and emotional health later when the aspired family setting finally materialises.
Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre (BTMC) Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Dr CB Madhulika noted that family planning not only improves health, but also allows families to manage their financial and time resources more effectively.
There are two essential types of non-permanent contraceptive options available for couples and individuals considering family planning, ranging from hormonal to non-hormonal methods. Hormonal contraceptives, like oral pills, patches, injections, and intrauterine devices (IUDs), work by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to reduce the chances of pregnancy. Non-hormonal methods such as the copper IUD and barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms, on the other hand, offer effective alternatives for those who may be hesitant to get hormonal treatment.
According to Dr Madhulika, pre-existing conditions, like cardiovascular issues, may make estrogen-containing hormonal contraceptives unsuitable due to blood clot risks, therefore, non-hormonal options might be preferable for those with conditions like diabetes or liver disease. Additionally, personal habits like smoking or hyperactivity levels may also influence contraceptive effectiveness and preferences, she added.
Hormonal contraceptives, while highly effective, come with both benefits and challenges. Many users appreciate the additional health benefits these methods offer, such as regulated menstrual cycles, reduced menstrual cramps, and even improved acne. However, side effects such as weight gain, mood changes, or nausea can occur in some users.
By allowing families to space their pregnancies, the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight is reduced to a certain extent. “Optimal spacing between pregnancies are crucial… as it allows women to recover from previous pregnancies and ensures better health outcomes for both the mother and the child. In the short term, it reduces maternal mortality and ensures better prenatal care. In the long term, it results in healthier children and improvement of overall family well-being,” shared Dr Madhulika.
The field of contraception continues to evolve, offering new innovation that broadens choice and convenience, such as the long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) which might curb pregnancy for up to 10 years.
Dr Madhulika’s take-home message is simple but impactful, “Knowledge is power. Understand your options, consult with your healthcare provider, and choose the contraceptive method that best fits your health and life goals.”
