Contraceptive technologies and consumer choices

ABSTRACT

Whilst a greatly increased range of contraceptive methods is now available, in practice it requires a very strong national delivery system to provide reliable access to contraceptives if users are to have an effective choice of methods. Contraceptive use in the Caribbean varies amongst countries but, with an average for the region of over 40 percent of women of reproductive age using modern contraceptive methods, it is comparatively high. Generally there is wide public awareness and knowledge about contraception and how it may be used safely and effectively. Despite the relatively high contraceptive use in the Caribbean, in practice the full range of contraceptive choice for consumers is not always available. The paper details 4 critical steps that must be taken for the Caribbean consumer to benefit from the full range of contraceptive choices (AU)