Self-injectable contraceptive tested in Uganda

Access to birth control can be a challenge for women across the world. In Uganda unintended pregnancies are common.

According to the 2011 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey, more than four in 10 births are unplanned.

“Women face a number of challenges accessing contraception. One is access, they live far away from health services. Another one is information, they simply don’t know about methods. And a third is, often times, opposition by their partners,” said Sara Tifft, PATH Reproductive Programme health Officer

But a new single use contraceptive injection could change this pattern. Developed by US global non profit organisation PATH in -conjunction with other partners, Sayana Press, is a three-month, progestin injection that can be administered by health care providers, or even women themselves.

It is currently being tested in remote regions of Uganda. PATH says it is affordable as it can go for a dollar per dose in some of the world’s poorest countries.