In a worrying trend, Belgian gynaecologists are warning of an impending rise in unwanted pregnancies, following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the closure of sex education institutions. Dr. Beertha Declercq, a renowned gynaecologist, has expressed concern about the potential repercussions of these factors on sexual health and pregnancy rates.
During the pandemic, sex education classes were substituted with online lessons, which often failed to engage students as effectively as in-person teaching. Additionally, with lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, many young people found themselves isolated and hopelessly seeking connections, leading to an increase in unplanned sexual encounters.
“We’re seeing a concerning trend where many young people are not using contraception correctly, or at all, due to gaps in sex education and lack of access to contraceptive services during the pandemic,” Dr. Declercq explained.
The closure of family planning clinics and reduced access to sexual health services during lockdowns have exacerbated the situation. Teenagers and young adults, who are already vulnerable and often ill-informed about sexual health, have struggled to obtain necessary information and resources to protect themselves.
Experts are now warning that the perfect storm of inadequate sex education, increased unprotected sex, and limited access to contraceptives may soon lead to a surge in unwanted pregnancies among the young. “We’re heading for a significant rise in teenage pregnancies if immediate action isn’t taken,” Dr. Declercq warned.
Healthcare professionals are calling for urgent measures to address this burgeoning issue. They emphasize the importance of reinstated, improved sex education, increased access to contraceptive services, and effective online resources tailored to young people’s needs.
“We must prioritize sexual health education and resources to ensure young people have the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions and protect themselves,” Dr. Declercq concluded.
As societies reopen and return to normality, it is crucial to learn from the pandemic’s impact on sexual health and address any emerging challenges promptly. By doing so, we can mitigate the potential consequences and support better sexual health outcomes for all.
