Overview 

Family planning services consist of contraception counselling, adequate spacing between births and determining when a woman is most fertile in order to fall pregnant naturally.

Contraception is a means of intentionally preventing an unplanned pregnancy through the use of condoms, birth control pills, intrauterine devices, vaginal rings, implants, patches or injectables.

Expectation

Depending on the reason for your visit, Dr Kalwiba will provide contraceptive counselling or engage in preconception counselling. 

Different contraceptive methods include the following:

• Oral contraception contains female hormones progesterone and oestrogen, hormones the ovaries produce naturally. Fortunately, the pill prevents the monthly secretion of the egg. In addition, the pill causes the mucous in the neck of the womb to thicken, making it more challenging for sperm to reach the egg. The pill also thins the womb’s lining, significantly reducing the chance of the egg from attaching to the womb.
• An intrauterine device, a common type of birth control, is placed inside the uterus. An IUD remains in the uterus, preventing pregnancy for at least ten years. It’s advisable to get Dr Kalwiba to insert the device if this is an option you are considering since he is trained to do so.
• Monthly injectables prevent the ovaries from secreting eggs. As a result, this contraceptive method reduces the risk of an unplanned pregnancy
• A vaginal ring, also called a NuvaRing, is a plastic ring-shaped instrument designed to stop a pregnancy.

Preconception counselling consists of the following:

• A record of your family history consists of genetic disorders or other health conditions that could compromise or affect the pregnancy.
• An OB-GYN also takes note of previous surgeries, hospitalisations, pre-existing medical conditions and allergies.
• Lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise and harmful habits (smoking) that affect your overall health during this time.
• Immunisations need to remain up-to-date to ensure a safe pregnancy and delivery.
• A pelvic exam involves inserting two protected fingers into the vagina while pressing on the abdomen to examine the ovaries and uterus.
• Laboratory testing includes a Pap smear, blood test and HIV screening and diabetes and thyroid disease checks.

Results

While most contraceptives boast over 99 per cent effectiveness, it’s always best to consult with your OB-GYN first to determine the most suitable option for you.

Preconception counselling aims to identify possible risk factors that could complicate a pregnancy. It is, therefore, important for women to attend regular preconception appointments to ensure they take the necessary precautions before falling pregnant.

FAQ