Experts warn of alarming misuse of emergency contraceptives in Tanzania

However, a recent study unveiled at the Tanzania Health Summit (THS) in Zanzibar revealed that nearly 83 percent of Tanzanian women of reproductive age lack basic knowledge on when and how to use the contraceptives.

The report titled; Magnitude of Repeat Use of Emergency Contraceptives Among Women of Reproductive Age in Tanzania, published in the Tanzania Journal of Health Research, points to a critical gap in reproductive health education.

“Most women do not understand the appropriate timing or how ECPs work. Some even use them mistakenly as abortion pills,” the head of innovation and technology transfer at the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Dr Kijakazi Mashoto, told The Citizen in an interview.

He noted that the majority of women they surveyed were unaware that ECPs should ideally be taken within 72 hours post-intercourse for maximum effectiveness.

The study conducted by Dr Mashoto and her team and published on October 8, 2024, uncovered a troubling trend where only 20 percent of women access ECPs through health facilities, while 68.7 percent opt for private outlets.

The trend means many women may not receive accurate information from qualified healthcare providers, contributing to improper use and misconceptions.

"From those we interviewed, it became clear that many women are misinformed about ECPs, seeing them as a method of abortion rather than prevention," Dr Mashoto added.

The experts also exposed a lack of sexual education, especially in rural areas, as another issue around the misuse of contraceptives.

With topics like contraception considered taboo in many Tanzanian communities, discussions about sexual health are often muted, hindering accurate information from reaching those who need it most.

The ministry of Health has emphasised the importance of family planning as a pillar of Tanzania's reproductive health policy.

However, access to accurate information remains a challenge.

“We recognise that there is still much to be done to bridge the knowledge gap on reproductive health,” head of the Pharmaceutical Policy and Practice Component at the ministry of Health, Dr Suma Jairo, said.

He further noted that awareness and proper use of contraceptives like ECPs are crucial, especially as the government aims to reduce unintended pregnancies and empower women to make informed health decisions.

Yet, while ECPs are available without prescription in Tanzania, most women are unaware of this fact.

The study found that 82.5 percent of women did not know they could obtain ECPs over-the-counter.

A health communications expert, Ms Kuduishe Kisowile, stressed the importance of dispelling myths and promoting open conversations on reproductive health.

“In many communities, discussing contraception is still taboo, which limits access to correct information,” she said.

“Educational disparities also play a major role—women with limited schooling may not have the skills to seek or understand accurate health information,” she said.

Another critical aspect is the role of healthcare providers.

“Inadequate training of healthcare providers in Tanzania further complicates the issue,” Dr Mashoto pointed out.

Many providers lack comprehensive knowledge on ECPs, including their indications, side effects, and effectiveness, leading to a hesitation in dispensing the pills.

This often leaves women without a reliable source of information.

“Healthcare workers need to be properly trained to communicate effectively about ECPs,” she emphasised. Without this knowledge, providers are less likely to recommend ECPs or educate patients, perpetuating a cycle of misinformation, she said.

A Reproductive Health Specialist based in Dodoma, Dr Zawadi Mwasiga, underscored the importance of improved healthcare provider training.

“When providers are well-informed, they can reassure women that ECPs are safe and effective when used correctly,” she said.

“This could greatly reduce misuse and help women feel more comfortable accessing contraceptives.”

Experts argue that comprehensive educational programmes targeting women and healthcare providers are essential to closing the awareness gap.

“Awareness campaigns that promote the correct use of ECPs should be a priority,” urged Ms Kisowile.

“We need to create a supportive environment where women can discuss their health without stigma,” she said.

In rural areas, where access to healthcare is limited, experts recommend mobile health clinics and radio programmes to help inform women about reproductive health options.

“Accessible education is key,” Ms Kisowile added.