By Esther Owolabi

A growing debate over the use of family planning methods is stirring divergent opinions among residents of Ikpoba-Okha and Oredo Local Government Areas in Edo State, as myths, cultural beliefs, and misinformation continue to cloud public understanding.

While a section of the population remains wary of family planning—citing unverified health concerns and deep-seated cultural norms—others have embraced it as a crucial tool for promoting maternal health, child spacing, and overall family well-being.

In the bustling streets of Ikpoba-Okha, apprehension remains high among some residents. A market woman voiced her fears: “Many women dey fear the side effects of family planning. Some believe say e dey cause heavy bleeding or even make them sick, so dem no want do am.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Osamede Omoruyi, a social media manager and father of one, attributed his reluctance to generational beliefs. “My parents did not do it, my grandparents did not do it. For me, I will not do it too, because of the negative stories I've heard about family planning.”

Yet, despite the resistance, there is a growing community of advocates who have had positive experiences. A mother of four in Ikpoba-Okha shared her story: “Family planning helped me space my children and gave me time to recover after each birth. It is good for the health of both mother and child.”

Another female respondent, who has been using contraceptives for over three years, dismissed fears of adverse effects. “I have no complaints. It’s safe and effective. What people are saying are just rumours,” she said, urging other women to visit health centres and seek professional guidance.

In Oredo LGA, misconceptions around morality and fertility were challenged by a male respondent. “It’s not family planning that makes someone promiscuous,” he asserted. “Anyone that wants to be promiscuous will be, with or without it.”

He also tackled myths about infertility. “I don’t believe those stories. I’ve read about family planning and I know it doesn’t stop a woman from having children. It helps couples plan better and reduce financial and emotional stress.”

Providing official insight, the State Reproductive Health Coordinator at the Edo State Ministry of Health, Adja Abieyuwa, emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to counter misinformation.

“Many of the myths surrounding family planning are simply not true,” she said. “Modern contraceptive methods are safe, reversible, and do not affect a woman’s future fertility.”

Abieyuwa underscored the importance of continued community education and awareness campaigns. “When people receive accurate information, they are more empowered to make decisions that protect their health and their families.”

As health officials intensify advocacy efforts across Edo State, bridging the gap between traditional beliefs and scientific facts remains a critical task. Only through consistent sensitization and trust-building can public acceptance of family planning improve in communities like Ikpoba-Okha and Oredo.