Expanding Method Choice in Africa with Long-Acting Methods: IUDs, Implants or Both?

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Global Health
• Public Policy

Background:

• Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants, are highly effective contraceptive options.
• Sub-Saharan Africa faces significant challenges in reproductive health, including high unmet need for family planning.
• Understanding LARC uptake is crucial for improving contraceptive prevalence and maternal health outcomes in the region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key components influencing LARC uptake in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for guiding policies and programs aimed at increasing LARC access and use.
• To assess trends in LARC availability, knowledge, use, and user characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature and data on LARC access and utilization in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Analysis of trends in method knowledge, facility availability, user demographics, and discontinuation rates.
• Examination of factors affecting LARC method choice and expansion.

Main Results:

• Trends indicate varying levels of access to IUDs and implants across facilities, with disparities in method knowledge.
• User characteristics and reasons for discontinuation are diverse, highlighting the need for tailored counseling and support.
• Opportunities exist for expanding LARC method choice through increased availability in national programs.

Conclusions:

• Policy and programmatic interventions are needed to enhance LARC accessibility and address barriers to uptake in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Strengthening healthcare systems and improving contraceptive counseling are essential for maximizing the benefits of LARC.
• Further research should focus on innovative strategies to promote LARC use and meet diverse reproductive health needs.