A renowned contraceptive expert has disputed claims that the use of family planning methods could cause long-term complications among girls below the age of 18.
The specialist – Donald Makwakwa- has made the observation amidst a debate on whether or not young girls should be permitted to access contraceptives without parental consent.
The debate follows a suggestion from the Parliamentary Committee on Social Welfare that young girls should be permitted to access the contraceptives as a means of reducing early pregnancies.
However, opponents of the proposal are arguing that the move could result in long-term complications among the young girls.
Nonetheless – Makwakwa has told MIJ Online that there is no need to worry – arguing contraceptives do not pose any long-lasting health threats to women of any age.
Commenting on the matter – Anthony Mtuta – an Anthropologist, has urged stakeholders to handle the issue with care – saying it has potential to fuel other social problems, such as promiscuity