Teen pregnancy: Fighting access to contraceptives is a distraction from the real battle

The issue of teenage pregnancy in Rwanda, as is the case in many parts of the developing world, looms large. Adolescents aged 15–19 years in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), data from the World Health Organization shows, had an estimated 21 million pregnancies in 2019. About half of the pregnancies ended in abortions, which are often unsafe in LMICs. The rate of teenage pregnancy in Rwanda spiked from 17,337 in 2017 to 33,423 in 2022. While the Covid-19 pandemic and its lockdowns may have exacerbated the situation, the upward trend was on even before. The rate stood at 23,628 in 2019, according to the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion. Yet, in most debates when the issue is discussed, the discourse often veers off course. Instead of addressing the root causes of the problem, much of the attention revolves around whether teens should have access to contraceptives. The Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS) 2019-20 revealed that the national teenage pregnancy rate for girls aged 15-19 years is 7%, which is higher than the global average of 5%. The misdirection not only fails to tackle the real issue but also perpetuates a harmful cycle. The figures are alarming and underscore the urgent need for action to address the underlying factors driving teen pregnancies. The answer certainly can’t be fighting possible options to the solution. One of the most effective strategies in preventing teen pregnancies, studies have consistently shown, is ensuring access to contraception. Contrary to common misconceptions, providing adolescents with access to contraceptives does not promote promiscuity but empowers them to make informed choices about their sexual health. That access leads to lower rates of unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions among teenagers. Despite the clear benefits of contraceptive access, however, it remains a contentious issue in the country. Even the parliament struck down a proposed bill on contraceptives for teens aged 15 or younger in October 2022. Some argue that providing contraceptives to teenagers sends the wrong message or undermines traditional values. Yet, the reality is that denying adolescents access to contraception does not prevent them from engaging in sexual activity but only increases the likelihood of unplanned pregnancies and associated health risks. Restricting access to contraception disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including rural and low-income populations, who may lack resources or education about family planning. By denying teens in such settings access to contraception, they are denied the fundamental right to control their reproductive health. Instead of fixating on limiting access to contraceptives for teens, focus – for all concerned stakeholders – should be on comprehensive sex education and access to reproductive healthcare services. Providing adolescents with accurate information about contraception, consent, and healthy relationships empowers them to make responsible choices about their sexual health. There is good progress, largely driven by youth organizations, but much more effort is needed to invest in youth-friendly reproductive health education to ensure that teenagers have access to confidential and nonjudgmental care. This includes providing a range of contraceptive options tailored to their individual needs and preferences. The battle against teen pregnancy requires a shift in focus. Access to contraception is an important tool in preventing unintended pregnancies and improving the health and well-being of adolescents. By addressing the real issue at hand and prioritizing comprehensive reproductive healthcare, more young people, who, as President Paul Kagame always reminds, are the most valuable asset of Rwanda, will be able to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. The writer is a pharmacist by training and a senior editor with The New Times.

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Teen pregnancy: Fighting access to contraceptives is a distraction from the real battle