Traditional family planning method unreliable – Expert

A media development organisation, Development Communications Network, has encouraged women in need of family planning to go for modern methods, describing the traditional methods as non-evidence-based.

DEVCOMS said traditional family methods have a high failure rate of more than 50 per cent.

The Program Director of DEVCOMS, Akin Jimoh, stated this on Thursday during a courtesy visit to The Punch Place, the headquarters of Punch Nigeria Limited.

Jimoh said, “When you look at traditional methods of family planning, the failure rate is high—sometimes more than 50%.

“However, there are several modern methods available that suit an individual’s body system. You are guided through processes that will enhance your opportunities to benefit as an individual, whether you are a housewife, a woman, or a social worker.

“Additionally, there is medical support available in case of any complications. People are monitored, advised, and counseled.”

He explained that the courtesy visit was to seek partnership with Nigeria’s leading newspaper, PUNCH, on public health education, particularly focusing on family planning.

DEVCOMS noted that PUNCH had consistently provided accurate and balanced information to the general public, making it an ideal partner to address public health challenges and provide technical expertise.

According to Jimoh, beyond providing information, DEVCOMS would also offer training to interested PUNCH journalists in public health and science journalism.

He said, “We work in the area of public health and science journalism, and we are here to discuss issues of family planning under the Challenged Initiative Programme. We need to look at key issues related to family planning and how it affects individuals.

“We need to address the challenges we face in the country, from security to education, maternal health, unsafe abortions, and more, because these issues affect all of us.

“The partnership with PUNCH is based on the newspaper’s longstanding commitment to critical reporting. PUNCH was at the forefront during the military regime and continues to play a significant role alongside other media organisations.

“When you look at health reports, platforms like PUNCH and others are where we can share our technical expertise. This collaboration will offer opportunities for PUNCH to benefit from our knowledge as well.

“This partnership is a win-win situation, not just for the two organisations but for Nigeria as a whole. It will support family planning efforts in the context of the Challenged Initiative, a programme we are backing and actively working on.”

Speaking at the courtesy visit, the General Manager of Digital and Publications at PUNCH Nigeria Limited, Demola Oni, assured DEVCOMS of a mutually beneficial partnership.