KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 – Although Malaysia is currently experiencing a substantial decline in its fertility rate, family planning is still essential, said Dr Wan Hilya Munira Mustapha, head of the Reproductive Health Unit, Human Reproduction Department, National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN).
During an interview with radio station National FM last Sept 24 in conjunction with World Contraception Day, which falls today, Dr Wan Hilya, said that while Malaysian couples are encouraged to procreate, they should not neglect family planning.
“The total fertility rate in the country has dipped significantly to 1.6 children per female, which is below the replacement rate,” said Dr Wan Hilya.
“We do encourage couples to have children or increase the number of children they have to ensure the population increases and the country’s economic productivity is guaranteed, but at the same time, we advise that every pregnancy should be planned.”
She added that every couple must be prepared for the pregnancy. “We cannot just encourage pregnancy without ensuring that women are prepared to safely deliver their children.”
Dr Wan Hilya said unplanned pregnancies should be avoided and that is why the use of contraception is vital. “We still need them to ensure that women are healthy and safe before they get pregnant.”
Benefits Of Using Contraception
There are a number of reasons couples will need contraception including to space the births of their children, for health reasons, and if the women are of older age.
“Women who have diabetes or uncontrolled high-blood pressure must have their conditions stabilised before they become pregnant,” she explained.
“Women aged 40 and above who are concerned about becoming pregnant at an older age; those women need contraceptives.”
Aside from its health and safety benefits, contraception can also assist couples economically by allowing them to plan their finances, she said, adding that family planning will also enable women to enjoy quality time with their husbands and children.
“So, the whole idea of family planning is actually aimed at ensuring family well-being,” Dr Wan Hilya said.
Myths About Contraception
Despite its many advantages, there are still prevailing myths that deter couples from using contraception. Among them, that it can cause infertility, result in weight gain, and even that it is not necessary for women aged 40 and above since they are already infertile.
“We encourage everyone to obtain knowledge and accurate information about contraception as it provides many benefits.
“For women with high fertility, if you stop using it for even one month, it will stick,” she said referring to their chances of getting pregnant.
However, women with low fertility might mistakenly believe they cannot conceive because of the contraceptive. “So, when they stop using it, they will blame it on the contraceptive (if they are unable to get pregnant),” she said.
“Use of effective contraceptives will prevent unplanned pregnancies and once you stop using the contraceptive, your fertility will be restored to its natural state.”
It is also a myth that women aged 40 and above don’t have to use contraceptives. “As long as you haven’t reached menopause (which is usually age 49, 50 and above), as long as you’re still getting your period, you are still at risk of getting pregnant,” Dr Wan Hilya said. “So, you must use contraceptives.”
According to her, there is also no cause for concern when it comes to weight gain. The dosages prescribed for contraceptive pills are low and available data shows the risk of weight gain is minuscule.
Besides, she pointed out that women can gain weight even without being on contraception. “If you say you don’t want to use contraception because of weight gain, if you get pregnant, won’t you be gaining weight? At least 10kg confirmed.”
She said it’s a misconception that contraception causes weight gain. “Let’s say you’re on a higher dose, it may be associated with an increase of one or two kg, but that’s due to water retention, not fat.
“If you have high cholesterol, which is caused by high fats, it is not because of contraception. It’s due to lifestyle and eating habits.”
Contraception 99% Effective
There are many methods of contraception including birth control pills, hormone injections, implants, intrauterine devices, condoms and permanent methods such as tubal ligation.
Dr Wan Hilya said many people are afraid of using contraception and rely on their own family planning methods like monitoring their menstrual cycle, but traditional approaches to family planning are less effective than modern methods.
“We encourage couples to use modern family planning because it is 99 per cent effective and can provide protection for a long time, some for up to three to five years.
“This way, women can have peace of mind. They don’t have to worry when they haven’t gotten their period for the month.”
Additionally, some contraceptives help stabilise periods so that they become regular, as well as reduce bleeding and cramps, she said.
“So, there are many benefits to contraception aside from preventing unplanned pregnancies.”
Dr Wan Hilya advised women to consult medical professionals such as doctors and pharmacists to get accurate information about contraception and advice on family planning.
