Adolescents and young people have been cautioned against the frequent use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) due to potential adverse health effects. Doris Ocansey, the Adolescent Health Focal Person at the Tema Metropolitan Health Directorate, warned that abusing ECPs can lead to serious complications.

Ms. Ocansey explained that ECPs contain significantly higher doses of hormones compared to regular daily contraceptives. While daily pills are designed for a 28-day cycle, emergency pills are intended for use within 24 to 48 hours of unprotected sex.

“Repeatedly taking such high hormonal doses when the body doesn’t require it regularly can cause menstrual irregularities and potentially lead to fertility challenges,” she cautioned.

Despite acknowledging the reality of adolescent sexual activity, Ms. Ocansey stressed the continued importance of promoting abstinence among young people. She highlighted that while various contraceptive methods, including condoms, are available, condoms remain the only option offering dual protection against both sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy.

“Condoms don’t offer 100 percent protection, but abstinence is the only guaranteed way to prevent unwanted pregnancies and STDs,” she stated.

Ms. Ocansey also addressed the sensitive issues of defilement and rape, noting that healthcare providers are often the first point of contact for victims. She clarified that while medical personnel provide immediate care, including testing and treatment, reporting such cases to the authorities falls under the purview of the District Social Welfare Office.

Regarding abortion, she emphasized the health risks, particularly for young girls. Responding to allegations of healthcare workers performing illegal abortions in their homes, Ms. Ocansey firmly stated that such acts are criminal offences.

“We urge all health professionals to report any colleagues found engaging in unlawful abortion practices,” she said.

Ms. Ocansey advised young people to avoid unsafe abortions and to seek medical attention from recognized health institutions for their reproductive health needs, rather than resorting to harmful concoctions and delaying care until complications arise.

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