Reproductive Rights In Zambia, Rumors About Birth Control Hinder Family Planning

Men fear vasectomies because they think they'll result in impotence. Women who don't want to get pregnant immediately refuse hormonal birth control because they worry it will keep them from getting pregnant ever. Global Press Journal is publishing two stories from Zambia, both about myths related to family planning services, that illustrate how local beliefs can override even the best-resourced reproductive health efforts.

A note about this series: Global Press Journal reporters around the world examined their communities' approaches to reproductive health, including values and priorities and how international policies impact them. Read the other stories in this month-long series here.

From contraception to vasectomies, myths surrounding certain family planning methods can sometimes hinder reproductive health efforts. Click the links below to read today's two stories about the effects on family planning in Zambia.

Prudence Phiri, GPJ Zambia

Many young women in Zambia believe that they won't be able to get pregnant if they use contraceptives, contributing to a high rate of teenage pregnancies. Seeking to provide easier access to family planning services, government hospitals consider a more proactive approach. Read the story here

Prudence Phiri, GPJ Zambia

In Zambia, myths about vasectomies run rampant. Now, one man hopes to counter the misinformation by sharing his experience and encouraging others. Read the story here