Embu: Experts raise alarm over misuse of P2 contraceptive pills

Speaking during a free medical outreach dubbed Madaktari Mashinani at Siakago Level Four Hospital, Embu County Head of Primary Care Health Services Dr Mercy Wanjala said emergency contraceptives are designed for occasional use following unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, and not as a substitute for regular family planning methods.

Dr Wanjala cautioned that repeated use of P2 pills may cause temporary hormonal changes and menstrual irregularities, urging women and young girls to seek professional guidance before using contraceptives.

She encouraged them to consult qualified healthcare providers to understand the different family planning options available and make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

The health official also called for increased public awareness and education on reproductive health, amid concerns over contraceptive use trends in the county.

The Madaktari Mashinani outreach brought together medical specialists from various fields to provide free healthcare services to residents, bringing specialised treatment closer to communities in rural areas.

Beneficiaries welcomed the initiative, saying it had reduced the cost and inconvenience of travelling long distances to access specialised medical services.

They called on the county government to sustain the programme and extend similar medical outreaches to other parts of Embu to improve access to healthcare services.