Content creator Judy Nyawira, wife of popular actor and screenwriter Abel Mutua, has opened up about their decision to use the ‘withdrawal’ method as their preferred form of family planning.
The couple, who have been together for 15 years and married for seven, have one daughter, 14-year-old Mumbua, and have publicly stated that they do not intend to have any more children.
In a candid conversation, Nyawira, known as Bi Mkurugenzi, revealed that she and her husband are not on any formal family planning method, relying instead on the withdrawal method.
She humorously compared the method to withdrawing money from an Mpesa shop, explaining, “We have become very good at withdrawal, if you know what I mean. Just like you withdraw cash from Mpesa, that’s what we do.” She added that a doctor even told them that this method could not be classified as family planning.
Before deciding on the withdrawal method, Judy shared that she had experimented with other forms of contraception, which ultimately didn’t work for her.
For three years, she used the Jadelle implant, but she experienced heavy bleeding that made it unsustainable. After discontinuing Jadelle, she tried the IUD (coil) method, but that too caused significant discomfort, forcing her to abandon it. “Since then, we have been on the Mpesa (withdrawal) method,” she said.
While the withdrawal method is commonly practiced, it is not considered a highly effective form of contraception by health professionals. According to studies, the withdrawal method, also known as the “pull-out” method, carries a one in five chance of pregnancy if not used properly. Although it is better than no contraception at all, experts advise pairing it with other birth control methods for greater effectiveness.
Despite these risks, the couple is confident in their approach. Nyawira noted that their decision is a personal one and works for them, especially after their experiences with other birth control methods that caused health issues.
On the topic of expanding their family, Abel Mutua has made it clear that he only ever wanted to have one child. The screenwriter explained that his decision to stop at one child was motivated by his desire to provide fully for his daughter without facing undue financial pressure.
The couple has remained united on this decision and is content with their small family.
In addition to discussing family planning, Nyawira spoke candidly about their marriage, highlighting the challenges they’ve faced over the years. She described marriage as “not for the faint-hearted,” saying that while it’s beautiful, it requires constant work. “There are days when this wife or husband thing doesn’t work, but we’ve kept the spark alive by maintaining our friendship,” she said.
