Long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (DIU o Implante)
Access to family planning services, including access to the full range of contraceptive methods to prevent unintended pregnancy is an important way to prevent Zika-related birth defects. Sexually-active women who do not have access to contraception are at greater risk of an unplanned pregnancy.
CDC has recommended that health care providers should:
- Discuss prevention of unintended pregnancy with women and couples who reside in areas of local Zika transmission and who want to delay or avoid becoming pregnant, and
- Provide information about birth control methods (including long-acting reversible contraceptives) that best meet their needs.
While long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (LARCs) – such as the intrauterine device (IUD) and the implant – are highly effective, convenient, and cost-effective, their uptake among young women is low.
The Health Communication Capacity Collaborative (HC3) created a collection of materials in English to help increase access to LARCs for youth. The Knowledge for Health (K4Health) Project has adapted the collection for the Latin American and Caribbean region and the Zika context, with HC3’s permission.
The following are now available in Spanish:
- A short animated video aimed for providers who may counsel young women about modern contraceptive methods
- A video discussion guide to help program managers or health facility senior staff facilitate deeper dives into the video’s key messages, including provider bias
- A take-home brochure that provides information on LARCs for dissemination to youth in clinic or non-clinic settings
In addition, PASMO through the USAID-funded PlanFam along with some private funding adapted the brochure and the series of posters to encouraging youth to find out more information on LARCs specifically for the: