Early testing of new long-acting contraceptive for increased access and choice
Region: Global
More than 40 million women worldwide use injectable contraceptives, which are currently effective for one to three months depending on the product. In sub-Saharan Africa, more than a third of contraceptive users choose injectables. Despite the method’s popularity, discontinuation rates, particularly in developing countries, are high and often due to missed follow-up appointments. FHI 360 is supporting the identification and early testing of innovative approaches for an injectable that would last six months. The first phase of the project, completed in 2012, identified a number of promising concepts. In the next phase, several of those will advance to proof-of-concept testing — a first step toward expanding contraceptive access and choice for women around the world.
Funder: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
