Douala, the economic capital of Cameroon, experienced an unprecedented surge in sales of the morning-after pill in December 2023, making it the most sought-after pharmaceutical product of the month. Pharmacies faced a sudden drop in stock as individuals turned to the emergency contraception method after instances of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
A pharmacist in Douala said, “We have never seen such demand for this pill before,” expressing the overwhelming trend that many neighbourhood pharmacies are currently experiencing.
La Voix du Kwat, a prominent blog in Cameroon, initially published the story, confirming the widespread scarcity of the morning-after pill in the region during that period. “Our stock emptied in December 2023; the story is the same for the neighbouring pharmacy,” stated a source quoted by the blog.
The morning-after pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a medication designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. While it is most effective within 72 hours, it can still be viable up to 120 hours later, reports say.
Josiane, a local resident, shared her experience with Voix de Kwat, stating, “I use it after unprotected sex. I was using it with my ex-boyfriend during the holidays.” Her testimony sheds light on the importance of both comprehensive sex education and accessibility to contraception methods.
The increased sales of the morning-after pill in Douala highlight the urgent need for improved sex education and enhanced access to contraceptives. Many individuals may lack knowledge on the effective use of contraception or face obstacles in obtaining it, leading to unintended pregnancies with potentially serious consequences for women’s health and well-being.
“I am not ready to get pregnant now,” emphasised Josiane, echoing the sentiments of many who seek emergency contraception as a crucial preventive measure.
It is crucial to note that the morning-after pill is not a regular form of contraception and should only be used as a backup method. Sexually active individuals are encouraged to consult with their doctors to identify a regular form of contraception that suits their needs.
In addition to its use as a backup method, here are some key considerations about the morning-after pill:
- It is not 100% effective.
- It can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Editor’s Note: If there are any questions or concerns regarding the morning-after pill, individuals are advised to consult with their healthcare professionals for personalised guidance. The surge in sales in Douala serves as a stark reminder of the importance of promoting sexual health education and ensuring widespread access to contraception to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
