Sierra Leone: How Stigma Undermines Contraceptive Use Among Women in Sierra Leone

Freetown — Eunice Dumbuya, a young activist in Freetown, Sierra Leone, still remembers being called promiscuous after getting a contraceptive implant a few years ago. She knew the risks of an unplanned pregnancy in her conservative country, so she made a choice.

“I had to go with my aunt to the hospital for contraceptives because my mom was very strict,” she explained. “My aunt was the one who supported me. Using contraceptives boosted my self-confidence,” Eunice shared.

In Sierra Leone, many…