Obaa Yaa
My advice to young ladies
Dear Obaa Yaa,
I am a 32-year- old graduate from one of the universities in Ghana. I deem it necessary to sound a word of caution to young ladies to concentrate on whatever they are doing and not to follow boys.
I was in love with one of my course mates though we were careful not to indulge in sex, we got to a point where complacency took the greater part of us and l got pregnant.
My pregnancy took me by surprise and the serene academic environment suddenly changed and l became confused.
In my confused state l considered many options but the need to cause abortion was on top of the list. Since l was at home when the pregnancy set in, my mother did not find it difficult to discover the mess l had landed in.
The cunning way she posed the question to me made it impossible for me to deny. With this discovery l decided to maintain the pregnancy and defer my course.
Though my boyfriend was not financially sound, l accepted odd jobs to enable me to go through the period until l was delivered of my baby.
Fortunately, my mother took care of my child while l returned to school and successfully completed with a good grade.
However, l must warn that it was not easy since l put a lot of stress on myself and on my parents.
I wish to advise young girls to concentrate on their studies and refrain from engaging in pre-marital sex, since this could end their education for ever.
Beatrice, Accra.
Dear Beatrice,
Experience is the best teacher and it is good to share your bitter experience with young girls who are growing and likely to pass through the problem you had.
You are lucky to have parents who were considerate and accepted despite the problem. I think it is essential to take her advice since you may not be as fortunate as she was.
Concentrate on your studies to avert embarrassment from boyfriends some of whom may disown the pregnancy and make you look disappointed before your parents.
Obaa Yaa
Her attitude has changed
Dear Obaa Yaa,
There is something happening that could ruin the relationship with my girlfriend if it is not checked.
My girlfriend has a beautiful chocolate complexion which I am proud of.
In recent times, she has started bleaching in a manner I find annoying.
When I asked her why she is bleaching, she was unable to give me any tangible reason except to say that she wants the skin to be smooth.
I have, however, learnt from a friend of her’s that she admires another friend who has bleached her skin.
Because of that, I have warned her about the dangers and ramifications involved in bleaching but she has turned a blind eye.
One annoying thing is that after spending all her money on bleaching soaps and creams, she persistently worries me for money as if I am indebted to her.
I am beginning to think that she is bleaching to attract other men just as the friend is doing.
I am thinking of breaking up with her because she is not ready to listen to me.
Asare, Accra.
Dear Asare,
You don’t need to break up with her because she is bleaching. Try and coax this girl to give up this bad habit and if possible get her a pastor and parents to talk to her.
If this should fail, give her an ultimatum to give up this habit or risk losing the relationship.
Bleaching has side effects and can cause skin cancer.
You can also advise her to do the skin therapy with a good body cream.
Obaa Yaa
I’m ashamed of my stature
Dear Obaa Yaa,
I am a young lady of 18 years and I have developed a stature I am ashamed of.Obaa, at first I was slim, smart and beautiful.
Within a few months, I have grown fat. When I walk around with my friends, they just make fun of me.
I realised the weight gain is affecting my health. I am finding it difficult to walk for long. That is making me sick all the time.
I am worried, please help me to get back to my normal stature.
Dora,
Konongo
Dear Dora,
You must first determine if your sudden excessive weight is as a result of eating too much or because of some drugs you are taking.
If it is because of some drugs, then see a doctor for an advice.
However, if it is because of excessive eating, then try to cut down the quantity of food you eat and then begin to exercise. Try and enroll in a keep –fit club or gymnasium.
Some people also put on weight when they are stressed, so try and have enough rest.
If you know a dietician, seek counselling so you don’t end up suffering for anorexia
