Family planning facility records 4,000 clients in 10 months

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

The family planning unit at Cottage Hospital, Adewole, Ilorin, has recorded over 4,000 clients who adopted various family planning methods between January and October this year.

Mrs. Shehu Asiat, a Principal Nursing Officer and family planning provider at Cottage Hospital, confirmed this on Wednesday. She attributed the high uptake to the hospital’s accessible location and the quality of its primary healthcare services.

“On average, we record about 400 clients per month. So far, we’ve seen roughly 4,000 clients in the last 10 months. The turnout has been encouraging,” Mrs. Shehu stated.

Mrs. Shehu, who is also a TCI Master Trainer, highlighted that implants are the most popular method among new clients, though injectables are also widely used. “If commodities are available, implants are typically in high demand among new clients. However, the injectable option also remains popular,” she explained.

While clients are generally satisfied with the available options, Mrs. Shehu noted that some report hormonal side effects, such as irregular menstruation. “We counsel these clients and offer medications to help regulate their cycle. Some choose to continue with their method, while others switch to a different option,” she said.

Mrs. Shehu further disclosed an increase in monthly client numbers. “Previously, we saw around 300 clients each month, but in August and September, this rose to about 500. This increase is encouraging.”

She credited this growth to TCI’s monthly outreach program, which provides support for clients who cannot afford the consumables. She urged individuals to consider family planning proactively, rather than waiting until after an unplanned pregnancy or abortion. “Timely adoption of family planning can help avoid unwanted pregnancies,” she added, calling for greater advocacy to promote early uptake.

Speaking with some clients at the facility, Habiblah Hamdalat, a 24-year-old trader and first-time user, mentioned she had opted for a three-year implant method after recently giving birth.

Another client, a 46-year-old mother of six who preferred to remain anonymous, shared her reasons for choosing family planning. “I opted for the implant because with the current economy, it’s necessary. I chose the five-year option and will monitor my weight and menstrual cycle. If it works well, I’ll encourage others to consider family planning,” she said.

Similarly, Owolabi Shakirat, a 38-year-old civil servant, described her 11-year experience with an intrauterine device (IUD) since the birth of her first child, now 12. “I’ve never wanted to switch because this method suits me. I’ve become an advocate, guiding other women of reproductive age to verified family planning units,” she said.

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