Roseline Akinlabi, adolescent and youth sexual reproductive health desk office, Osun Primary Healthcare Board, says contraceptive pills cannot cause cancer of the cervix in women.

Ms Akinlabi, a certified family planning trainer, said this on Monday in Osogbo during a virtual engagement programme organised by the State Public Health media team in collaboration with a non-governmental organisation, The Challenge Initiative.

Ms Akinlabi, also a registered public health nurse, said that the popular belief that contraceptive pills could encourage infidelity and cause permanent infertility in women was inaccurate.

According to her, contraceptive pills cannot cause cancer of the ovary and the lining of the uterus in women, as speculated.

“Myths and misconceptions are the major challenges to uptake of family planning in the state and the country at large. Various myths and misconceptions about family planning methods have led to a high prevalence of teenage pregnancy, high maternal mortality and morbidity rates, among others.

“These myths and misconceptions often surround family planning methods, creating confusion and hindering access to essential care. They negatively impact child spacing and abortion rates by preventing the use of contraceptives, leading to unwanted pregnancies and, subsequently, more abortions.

“These false beliefs create barriers to access and utilisation of family planning methods, increasing the risks of unwanted pregnancies and risky sexual behaviour. There is urgent need to dispel these myths and equip individuals with accurate facts to make informed decisions about their reproductive health,” she said.

Ms Akinlabi called for collective responsibilities to dispel rumours about contraceptives, raise awareness about the benefits of family planning, and create a safer space for girls and women in society.

According to her, family planning empowers individuals to choose the number, spacing and timing of their children, leading to improved health outcomes for the mother and the child.

(NAN)