SILENT CRISIS: Contraceptive Pills and Abortion among Kenyan Youth

In Kenya today, Contraceptive pills have become the go-to solution for many young people engaging in unprotected sex, while abortion, often carried out secretly, has become an alarming escape route for unintended pregnancies. 

University students, struggling with the pressures of academic life, relationships, and economic challenges, find themselves at the centre of this trend. But what factors are driving this surge, and what are the consequences?

The emergency pills have become commonly used due to easy accessibility. 

For many Kenyan campus students, emergency contraceptive pills “morning-after pill” commonly known as P2 have become as normal as painkillers. According to Mr Brian Omollo, a pharmacist around Ndagani town, Chuka University has high demand for these pills, a clear indication of widespread unprotected sexual activity. The ease of access, lack of parental supervision, and inadequate sex education contribute to this growing dependency. However, medical experts warn that frequent use of these pills may have long-term reproductive health risks, including hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities.

Increased cases of unsafe abortions

Despite the legal and social stigma surrounding abortion in Kenya, cases continue to rise, particularly among university students. Many young women, fearing parental disappointment, academic failure, or financial struggles, opt for secret abortions, often performed by unqualified individuals in unsafe environments. According to health reports, complications from unsafe abortions are a major cause of maternal mortality among young women. To avoid such incidents young women, opt to take the emergency pills.

Several factors contribute to this growing problem, including:

1.Lack of proper Sex Education – Many young people have little knowledge about reproductive health, leading to risky behaviors.

2.Peer Pressure and Social Media Influence – The normalization of casual sex, fueled by peer pressure and exposure to pornographic content online, encourages risky behavior.

3.Economic Challenges – Some students engage in prostitution to sustain their lifestyle, increasing their risk of unintended pregnancies.

4.Stigma and Fear – The stigma around early motherhood and parenthood outside marriage encourages one to practice silent abortion rather than facing the reality. 

Effects accompanied by abortion and usage of contraceptive pills

Unsafe abortion, usually occurs when abortion is conducted -professionals, in most cases in places where ethical standards are adhered to access abortion

-Psychological and emotion torture, the feeling of guilt, sadness and anxiety are experienced.

In addition, abortion can cause physical injuries. It can lead to heavy bleeding and loss of blood.

Pills have short term effects such as nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness and irregular bleeding.

Long term effects of using pills includes hormonal imbalance and irregular menstruation. 

The rising dependence on contraceptive pills and the increasing cases of abortion among Kenyan university students are symptoms of deeper societal and educational gaps. Unless open discussions, better access to healthcare, and comprehensive education become a priority, the cycle of secrecy, fear, and health risks will continue. It is time for parents, educators, policymakers, and the youth themselves to take responsibility and seek sustainable solutions.