Expert warns disasters cut off birth‑control access for Filipino women

In disaster‑prone communities across the Philippines, access to family‑planning services often becomes collateral damage during calamities, leaving many women vulnerable and without support.

Dr. Ma. Carmen Peñalosa, an expert on gender and reproductive health at Miriam College, highlighted the need to address this issue and ensure reproductive‑health services remain available during emergencies.

Peñalosa emphasized that local health systems must be prepared to withstand disasters to guarantee continuous access to family‑planning services.

A study funded by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) revealed that women in disaster‑affected areas report difficulties in obtaining contraceptives when calamities strike.

In areas such as Batangas, Eastern Samar and Siargao Island, health systems often buckle under pressure, forcing women to bear the financial cost of contraceptives out‑of‑pocket — ranging from ₱50 to ₱200 per pack of pills.

"Women and girls, those in rural areas, indigenous communities, and other marginalized groups are often disproportionately left behind in the development process, especially during times of disaster," she said.

In addition to financial strain, sociocultural factors in communities such as Marawi City exacerbate the problem. Women face stigma for using contraceptives, with some even accusing them of trying to control Muslim populations.

"If you don't have children, you are ashamed. If you use pills, you are called promiscuous,” Peñalosa said.

"Some see it as a way to control the population of the Muslims," she added.

Notably, across all study areas, vasectomy was not considered a viable option, reflecting a widespread lack of male involvement in family‑planning decisions.

These sociocultural barriers, compounded by disaster‑related disruptions, create an even more challenging environment for women seeking reproductive‑health services, Peñalosa stressed.

Given these multifaceted challenges, she urged local health authorities to secure a steady supply of contraceptives during disasters — especially for the most vulnerable communities.

She also called for culturally sensitive education campaigns to reduce stigma and myths surrounding contraception and emphasized the need to actively involve men in these efforts.

Furthermore, she advised local governments to integrate family‑planning into disaster‑preparedness and response plans, ensuring that reproductive health remains protected, no matter the circumstances.