1. Introduction

Contraception (also called family planning or birth control) allows individuals and couples to plan when and how many children they want. Whether you live in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, or a village, knowing your options will help you make wise choices for your health and future.

In Ghana, you can access options like Lydia, Levon 2, Postinor 2, Secure, BK 1, and more. This article explains how they work, possible side effects, and answers common questions [1][2].

Image: Family planning

2. What is Contraception?

Contraception means using methods to prevent pregnancy. These methods work in different ways:

1. Stop sperm from meeting the egg (e.g., condoms)
2. Stop the egg from being released (e.g., pills or injections)
3. Make the womb less welcoming for a fertilized egg (e.g., IUD) [1]

2.1 Why Use Family Planning?

1. Control when to have children
2. Protect the mother’s health by spacing births
3. Help financially—raising children is expensive [2]

Image: Family planning

2.2 Can Contraceptives Fail?

Yes. No method is perfect. But using them correctly and consistently greatly reduces your risk of getting pregnant [3].

3. Contraceptive Methods Available in Ghana

3.1 Oral Contraceptive Pills

These pills contain hormones that prevent ovulation. Popular brands in Ghana include:

1. Lydia, Levon 2, Secure, N Tablet, BK 1, Leena, Yasmin, Diane 35
2. Oviza (emergency use only)

Lydia pills work best if taken at the same time daily [4]. Missing pills or taking them late can reduce effectiveness.

Image: Contraceptive pills

Side Effects:

May include nausea, breast tenderness, mood swings, or changes in your period [3].

3.2 Emergency Pills (ECPs)

These are used after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours. Brands in Ghana include:

1. Postinor 2, Levon 2, Secure, Oviza

They delay ovulation or prevent implantation.

Not for regular use. Talk to a health worker if you use them often [4].

3.3 Injectable Contraceptive (e.g., Depo-Provera)

A shot taken every 2–3 months.

Advantages:

1. Private, no daily routine
2. Long-lasting
3. Disadvantages:
4. Possible weight gain
5. Delayed fertility after stopping [1][5]

mage: Implant

3.4 Implants (e.g., Jadelle)

Small rods placed under the arm. Lasts 3–5 years.

Side Effects:

1. Irregular bleeding
2. Headaches
3. Weight changes (in some women) [2]

Image: IUD (Intrauterine Device)

3.5 IUD (Intrauterine Device)

Inserted in the womb by a trained health worker.

1. Copper IUD: non-hormonal, lasts 10 years
2. Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena): lasts 5 years

Side Effects:

1. Cramping or spotting at first
2. Lighter or heavier periods depending on the type [1][5]

Image: Diaphragm/cap

3.6 Barrier Methods

1. Condoms (male/female): Prevent pregnancy and protect against STIs
2. Diaphragm and Cap: Not widely available in Ghana

Image: Male condom

Image: Female condom

3.7 Contraceptive Patch and Ring

Not very common in Ghana, but some clinics carry them. They release hormones through the skin or vagina [3].

3.8 Male Methods

1. Condoms: Most common, widely sold
2. Vasectomy: A permanent method for men
3. Male pills: Still under research; not yet available in Ghana [1]

3.9 Traditional or Risky Methods

1. Rhythm Method: Avoiding sex during fertile days—needs discipline
2. Withdrawal: Not reliable
3. Castor seed or neem oil: Lacks strong medical evidence [5]

Image: Common questions

4. Common Questions in Ghana

4.1 Which Method Causes Weight Gain?

Some women report weight gain with Depo-Provera and implants. But it depends on the individual [4].

4.2 What is LARC?

LARC means Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (like IUDs and implants). They last for years but can be removed anytime you want a child [2].

4.3 Prices of Pills in Ghana?

Prices vary. Lydia may cost around GHS 5–20, depending on where you buy it. NHIS may cover some methods at public clinics [1][5].

4.4 Which Pill is Best?

No one-size-fits-all. Your choice depends on your body, age, and health. Always ask a nurse or pharmacist [2].

4.5 Can Contraceptives Delay Periods?

Yes. Hormonal methods can make periods lighter, irregular, or delayed [3].

4.6 Can They Work During Ovulation?

Most prevent ovulation, but if ovulation has already occurred, they may be less effective. Use emergency pills if unsure [4].

Image: Tips

5. Tips for Safe Use

1. Always consult a health professional
2. Use as instructed—missing pills reduces their power
3. Be aware of side effects
4. Keep backup like Postinor 2 nearby
5. Return for checkups if using IUD or implants [2][5]

6. Conclusion

Family planning is your right. Ghana has a wide range of options—from daily pills to 5-year implants. No method is perfect, but used correctly, they are safe and effective. If you’re not sure what’s best for you, visit your nearest clinic or talk to a pharmacist.

Let’s break the myths and take control of our reproductive health—one informed decision at a time.

References

1. Ghana Health Service (2022). National Family Planning Guidelines. Accra: GHS Publications.
2. Marie Stopes Ghana (2023). Your Guide to Contraceptive Choices. Available at Marie Stopes Clinics nationwide.
3. World Health Organization (2023). Family Planning Fact Sheet. Retrieved from: www.who.int
4. Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (2021). Community Pharmacist Manual – Hormonal Contraceptive Use.
5. Korle Bu Teaching Hospital – Obstetrics & Gynaecology Dept (2022). Annual Reproductive Health Summary.