Procedures
Family planning

Overview

Family planning helps couples decide the number of children they want and when they want to have them. The availability of family planning clinics allows individuals or couples to achieve their desired spacing and family size, and contribute to improved health outcomes for infants and women.

There are different types of family planning methods, such as:

  • Long-acting reversible contraception – These are contraceptives that last for a long time. There are 2 different types of long-acting reversible contraceptives, such as:
    • Intrauterine device (IUD) – This is a small T-shaped object that is inserted inside the uterus. This may either be a copper or hormonal IUD. This may last for 3, 5 or 10 years.
    • Implant – This involves 2 matchstick-sized, small rods that are inserted under the skin on your arm. This may last up to 5 years.
  • Hormonal contraceptives – These are contraceptives that consist of hormones to help prevent pregnancy. These include:
    • Birth control pill – These may include combined oral contraceptive pill and the progestogen-only contraceptive pill.
    • Depo Provera injection – This is hormonal contraception which may be injected every 3 months.
  • Barrier methods – These are methods used to prevent sperm from entering the vagina. These include:
    • Condoms – This is a fine barrier that is rolled on the penis before intercourse.
    • Internal condoms – This is a condom pouch that is inserted inside the vagina before sexual intercourse. Condoms also help protect against sexually transmissible infections (STIs) as well as unplanned pregnancy.
  • Emergency contraception- These include an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) or a copper IUD which may be used to prevent pregnancy if:
    • You haven’t used protection
    • Normal contraception fails such as when a condom splits
    • You missed more than one contraceptive pill
    • You have been vomiting or had diarrhoea while on the pill
    • You have missed your injection schedule
    • You have been forced to have sexual intercourse without protection
Three smiling sexually active women of child bearing age
Smiling pregnant woman holding her belly
Pregnant woman making plans regarding the birth of her unborn child
Older woman contemplating the best treatment plan for menopause