Economics of family planning and birth control

The 50th anniversary of the Pill proves a useful setting against which to consider developments in contraception and birth control. However, differentials between the demands placed on health services and the resources available to meet such needs continue to be major headaches for those involved in policy making and the planning, provision and delivery of services. This review considers the cost-effectiveness of contraception and in particular, long-term reversible devices, which are effective in preventing unintended pregnancies and avoid the need for compliance. The paper discusses the cost-effectiveness of contraceptives and the economic benefits generated when unintended pregnancies are avoided. It also highlights the major inequities that exist in access to contraceptives on a global basis and highlights the need to increase provision in developing countries.