Family Planning in Rwanda: Facts, Myths,and What Young People Need to Know.

Family planning (contraception) is one of the most effective tools for improving the health and
well-being of young people and communities. In Rwanda, where over 60% of the population is

under the age of 25 (RDHS 2020), access to accurate information and services is critical. Yet,
myths and unanswered questions continue to discourage many youth from seeking
contraceptive services.

1. Which Method Works Best?
   The truth is, there is no single “best” method for everyone. The best method depends on an
   individual’s health, age, lifestyle, and personal preference. According to the Rwanda
   Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS 2020), the most commonly used methods among
   women in Rwanda include:
   ● Injectables (Depo-Provera): Used by 27% of women. Highly effective when taken
   every 3 months.
   ● Implants: Used by about 14% of women. Effective for 3–5 years.
   ● Pills: Used by 7% of women. Effective if taken daily, but requires discipline.
   ● Condoms: Common among men and youth, offering dual protection against pregnancy
   and STIs.
   ● IUDs and permanent methods are less commonly used but remain highly effective.

In terms of effectiveness, implants, injectables, and IUDs are among the most reliable
methods, preventing pregnancy in over 99% of cases when used correctly. Condoms are
slightly less effective for pregnancy prevention but are the only method that also protects
against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

2. Can Contraceptives Cause Infertility?

This is one of the biggest myths. Contraceptives do not cause permanent infertility.
Scientific studies and WHO guidelines confirm that fertility returns once a woman stops using
most methods.
● For injectables, it may take a few months (typically 6–12) for fertility to return, but this is
temporary.
● Pills, implants, and IUDs allow fertility to return almost immediately after discontinuation.

In Rwanda, health professionals emphasize that infertility is more often linked to untreated STIs,
complications from unsafe abortions, or other medical conditions not to contraceptive use.

3. When Can Young People Start Using Family Planning?
   Under Rwanda’s new reproductive health law (2025), anyone aged 15 and above can legally
   access family planning services without parental consent. This is critical, as adolescents often
   face the highest risks of unplanned pregnancies.
   Medical guidelines confirm that family planning methods are safe for adolescents. The choice
   depends on the young person’s situation:
   ● Condoms and pills may be easier for new users.

● Long-acting methods like implants can also be safe and effective for young people who
want more reliable protection.

4. The Situation in Rwanda
   Rwanda has made strong progress in family planning:
   ● The use of modern contraceptives among married women increased from 17% in
   2005 to 58% in 2020 (RDHS).
   ● Teenage pregnancy, however, remains a challenge, with 7% of girls aged 15–19
   pregnant or already mothers.
   ● Unmet need for contraception is still significant among young people, especially in rural
   areas, where stigma and lack of privacy prevent them from seeking services.

This shows that while progress has been made, youth-friendly services and accurate
information remain urgently needed.

5. Why It Matters
   Access to family planning is not only about preventing pregnancy, it is about giving young
   people control over their health, education, and future. When youth can plan if and when to
   have children, they are more likely to:
   ● Stay in school and complete their education.
   ● Avoid unsafe abortions and maternal health complications.
   ● Reduce the spread of HIV and STIs.
   ● Build stronger, more secure futures for themselves and their communities.

Conclusion
Family planning saves lives and opens doors. There is no single method that is “best for
everyone” the best method is the one that works for you. Contraceptives do not cause infertility,
and young people have the right to make informed choices about their bodies starting at age 15
under Rwanda’s new law.

The task now is to ensure that every young Rwandan, whether in Kigali or in the most remote
village, has access to trusted information and safe, confidential services. Only then can family
planning truly fulfill its promise of empowerment.

✍️ Article written by Dr. Clarisse Mutimukeye, Co-founder of URUNGANO Initiative