By Musa Ubandawaki in Sokoto

Family planning is increasingly gaining acceptance among couples in Sokoto State, as economic challenges and awareness of its benefits drive demand for childbirth spacing services.

Experts emphasize that family planning helps prevent unintended pregnancies and reduces mother-to-child HIV transmission, bringing crucial health benefits to families and communities.

During visits to Primary Health Centers (PHCs) in Tambuwal, Jabo, and Durbawa in Tambuwal and Kware local government areas, it was observed that the number of husbands encouraging their wives to seek family planning services has significantly increased. This trend is attributed to the country’s economic conditions, with families prioritizing stability and planning.

Community members and parents are also advising newlyweds to explore childbirth spacing methods to avoid early and unplanned pregnancies, our correspondent noted.

Miss Amratu Ibrahim, a family planning service provider at a PHC in Tambuwal, shared that demand has surged compared to previous years. “We see many more clients now. Housewives and newlywed couples are increasingly supportive of family planning, with many seeking implants to space their pregnancies. In October alone, we registered 203 women opting for implants and injections, with an average of 30 clients visiting daily,” she said.

Ibrahim attributed this rise to economic pressures, greater awareness, and supportive husbands who accompany their wives for counseling. “People are more aware of family planning benefits, especially in today’s tough economy. Many couples come together, including men seeking condoms, which shows a new level of openness and support,” she added.

Another healthcare worker, Hajiya Asabe Zaki, dispelled misconceptions about family planning, affirming that it is highly beneficial for couples. She assured that the health center conducts thorough tests before adopting any method to ensure safety and advised couples to take advantage of the free services provided by the state.

Aisha Balarabe Kajiji, a mother of five, testified to the benefits of family planning. Having adopted the implant method in 2020, she noted, “With my husband’s support, we decided to plan after our second child. The implant has made life easier, allowing us to focus on our children’s future and my health.” She shared that the method has improved her family’s quality of life by giving her time to recover and focus on her family’s well-being.

Another client, Rakiya Balarabe, recounted that her husband encouraged her to adopt the implant method after their second child was born in February. “Since then, life has been much smoother for us. I can now care for our two children and support my husband without fear of unplanned pregnancies,” she said.

The growing acceptance of family planning in Sokoto reflects a shift in attitudes among couples, who increasingly view childbirth spacing as a means to improve family health and economic stability.