Just recently we were treated to shocking revelations on the effects of some Chinese contraceptives which a good number of Kenyan women had started using due to the perception that they are herbal.

The revelation caused a lot of ripples in the women fraternity and especially anyone who was eying the ‘herbal method ‘of controlling birth, now its the NORPLANT which has been associated with a number of side effects that are life threatening.

Scores of Kenyan women are said to be exposing themselves to health hazards unknowingly by using Norplant, which is so popular among the Kenyan women.

The drug was banned in the United States and United Kingdom way back after it caused adverse effects in women using it. India has also banned Norplant.

Even with the very known side effects, the contraceptive is still on offer in several major hospitals in Kenya as family planning alternative.

When Norplant was first introduced in 1990, it was seen as a break through in birth control. It was reported to be as effective as sterilization except, of course, Norplant could be reversed. In general, though, Norplant’s efficiency does seem to be affected by who is using it.

Norplant is no longer available in many countries due to the severity of side effects experienced by some women. The ministry of health should rise up to the occasion and talk about the issue and if need be ban the contraception. What makes it safe when used by a Kenyan woman if a woman in the US or UK cannot use it?