Adepoju Isiaka displaying the pills he got from the health facility that stopped his wife’s bleeding.
Since July 2022, The Challenge Initiative (TCI) has been supporting Osun State in Nigeria to strengthen provider capacity in long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) service provision, interpersonal communication and counseling, and balanced counseling across TCI-supported local government areas (LGAs). TCI also encourages the local government to promote discussions around family planning through media channels such as radio stations.
Adeola Tolulope Olajumoke is a nurse in Osun State known for her dedication to educating the community about the benefits of family planning through radio broadcasts and neighborhood campaigns. She received training from TCI and found its materials and guidance instrumental in these efforts. She probably did not realize, however, the profound impact one of her radio appearances would have on one of her listeners and his family.
Adepoju Isiaka is a 39-year-old devoted husband, father and shoe cobbler residing in Owode, Ede North, Osun State. His wife, Adepoju Sofiayat, started experiencing heavy bleeding from her chosen modern contraceptive method. After deciding to discontinue its use, she and her husband became concerned that she may become pregnant and they were not ready for another child at the time.
Fortunately, Adepoju Isiaka was listening to UNIQ FM 103.1, a radio station in Ilesa, and heard Nurse Tolulope’s informative segment on potential side effects from family planning methods.
He then accompanied his wife to the Primary Health Care Center (PHCC) in Sabo, one of the TCI demonstration facilities in Osogbo, to seek further guidance. At the health facility, a dedicated family planning service provider not only addressed the undesirable effects but also provided contraceptive pills to manage the excessive bleeding.
With his wife’s bleeding under control, Adepoju Isiaka sought out Nurse Tolulope to express his gratitude for the invaluable information she provides through her radio program. During his interaction with Nurse Tolulope, he said:
It is very important for men to encourage their wives to explore family planning services. He will enjoy peace of mind because family planning also contributes to economic development for families. And he will enjoy a better and harmonious relationship with his wife as there won’t be any fear of unintended pregnancies.”
This transformative story exemplifies the power of male involvement, especially as it affects decision-making within a family. Adepoju Isiaka’s unwavering support enabled his wife to continue using family planning methods, benefiting their lives and their family’s well-being.
It also emphasizes the media’s role in disseminating accurate information. Nurse Tolulope’s radio appearance not only educated the audience on family planning side effects, but also led Adepoju Isiaka and his wife to seek care at an appropriate health facility.
