Storm-induced woes

Government researchers have found a correlation between natural calamities and a population explosion in marginal communities.

In disaster-prone regions, access to family planning services often becomes collateral damage during emergencies, leaving many women vulnerable and without support.

An expert has highlighted the need to ensure that reproductive health services remain available during emergencies.

Dr. Ma. Carmen Peñalosa, an expert on gender and reproductive health at Miriam College, emphasized that health systems must be prepared to withstand disasters to ensure continuous access to family planning services.

Women in disaster-affected areas report difficulty in accessing contraceptives when calamities strike, a study funded by the United Nations Population Fund found.

In Batangas, Eastern Samar and Siargao Island, women are forced to bear the financial cost of contraceptives, ranging from P50 to P200 per pill.

“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,” Peñalosa said.

What’s more, aside from the 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 the Muslim population.

“If you don’t have children, you are shamed. If you use pills, you are called promiscuous,” Peñalosa said.

“There are even some who see it as a way to control the Muslim population.”

Such sociocultural barriers, compounded by the disruptions caused by disasters, create an even more challenging environment for women seeking reproductive health services.

Local health authorities are advised to secure a steady supply of contraceptives during disasters, most especially for the most vulnerable communities.

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