Avoid unplanned pregnancies amid COVID-19, E. Visayas couples urged

TACLOBAN CITY –– Population officials in Eastern Visayas appealed to couples to avoid unplanned pregnancies amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

“(The community quarantines) could result in unplanned pregnancies, which could pose a problem to our hospitals that are already filled up with COVID-19 patients. We don’t want to add to this problem as this would strain our hospitals,” said Reyan Arinto, chief of the technical services unit of the Commission on Population and Development in Eastern Visayas (PopCom-8).

Arinto, however, said their appeal should not be misconstrued as prohibiting couples from having sex during the lockdown.

Arinto said what they want to avoid are “unplanned pregnancies.”

The PopCom has launched a radio program dubbed “Helpline” to ensure couples and individuals are well-informed about family planning services and adolescent health and development, amid movement restrictions due to COVID-19.

The program to be aired on five radio stations in Eastern Visayas and on social media platforms will start next week.

Melanie Alberto, PopCom-8 assistant regional director, said the radio program would provide services to couples on reproductive health-related issues, and help to those being subjected to sexual and physical abuse.

Alberto said listeners may call their “responders” for advice on responsible parenthood and family planning.

LZB