Представитель женщин в Найроби опровергла ложные утверждения о связи эндометриоза с противозачаточными средствами

Esther Passaris Rebukes Endometriosis Misinformation After P2 Claims Spark Outrage Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris has moved to counter misinformation surrounding endometriosis after controversial remarks linking the condition to emergency contraceptive pills and other family-planning methods triggered outrage online. The controversy followed an episode of the Chizi Podcast, where Andy Deh, son of the late radio presenter MC Fullstop, made claims about the cause of endometriosis while discussing media personality Natalie Githinji, who is battling stage 4 endometriosis. Deh suggested that prolonged use of emergency contraceptive pills, commonly referred to as P2, was responsible for the condition. “Nyinyi mnaanza kuingiza ma emotions. Let us deal with the problem. The problem ni ma P2,” Deh said during the podcast. Eric Omondi Calls for Accountability The remarks quickly spread across social media, attracting criticism from Kenyans and public figures who accused Deh of spreading dangerous misinformation about a serious medical condition. Activist and comedian Eric Omondi was among those who condemned the comments, highlighting the impact endometriosis can have on women and calling for accountability over the claims. “Please help me find this Guy. We want to use him as an example for the rest. Endometriosis is a MONSTER that has claimed the lives of so many of our Sisters, Mothers and wives. To Joke about it for the sake of Clicks and Views cannot be forgiven,” Omondi said. Passaris Sets the Record Straight As the debate intensified, Passaris intervened to provide what she described as medical facts and challenge claims linking contraceptive use to endometriosis. “Allow me to take this opportunity to correct the misinformation and share the medical facts,” Passaris said. The legislator noted that endometriosis has been documented for more than a century, predating modern contraceptives and emergency pills. “Endometriosis is a chronic condition whose exact cause remains unknown. It was medically documented as far back as 1860; long before P2 and modern family-planning methods existed,” she said. Passaris further clarified that there is no established medical evidence showing that P2 or family-planning methods cause endometriosis. “There is no established medical evidence that P2 or family planning causes endometriosis. In fact, some hormonal family-planning methods are prescribed by doctors to manage the pain and bleeding associated with the condition,” she added. The Nairobi lawmaker warned that spreading unverified claims could discourage women from seeking reproductive healthcare and appropriate treatment. “As a family-planning advocate, I must challenge claims that frighten women away from safe reproductive healthcare,” Passaris said. She urged greater sensitivity when discussing medical conditions, particularly those that affect millions of women. “Women living with endometriosis need compassion, accurate information and proper medical care; not blame and misinformation,” she said. Passaris also encouraged members of the public to seek guidance from qualified health professionals before making claims about medical conditions. “Please consult qualified medical professionals before making public health claims. Words have consequences,” she said. Endometriosis Affects Millions Worldwide The controversy comes as awareness of endometriosis continues to grow in Kenya and around the world. The World Health Organization estimates that endometriosis affects about 10 per cent of women and girls of reproductive age globally, translating to roughly 190 million people. The condition can cause severe pelvic pain, painful periods and other symptoms that may significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Githinji’s experience has recently brought renewed attention to the condition in Kenya, with her public updates about her battle with stage 4 endometriosis highlighting the physical and emotional toll it can take. The debate surrounding the podcast comments has consequently renewed calls for accurate information about endometriosis and greater public understanding of the condition.