Introduction: Emergency contraception (EC) has great potential to decrease the incidence and consequences of unintended pregnancy, including unsafe abortion. We conducted this study to identify current EC provision efforts in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).
Methods: We surveyed 41 International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) affiliates in LAC using a 16-item questionnaire. We collected Ministry of Health family planning norms and compiled information about registered, dedicated EC products in LAC. We also compiled an EC bibliography using both English and Spanish language sources.
Results: Thirty-seven affiliates responded to the survey (90% response), and 62% of these offer EC. Provision of the method is increasing; 43% of affiliates offering EC initiated services in or after 1995. EC is more available in Central/South America (available at 74% of responding mainland affiliates) than in the Caribbean (available at 50% of responding island affiliates). Considering EC methods, 96% of affiliates offering EC use cut-up packets of combined oral contraceptives and five affiliates offer dedicated products. While 71% of affiliates offering EC had received encouragement or support for providing the service, only 36% had encountered opposition (mostly from pro-life groups). Of affiliates not offering EC, many (79%) say they believe it promotes abortion, but 36% also say they do not have EC protocols or training.
Conclusion: EC use and support for the method are increasing in Latin America and the Caribbean. Advocates should clarify distinctions between EC and abortion to reduce confusion. Many affiliates indicate a willingness to provide EC if given training and protocols.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe trends in emergency contraception provision in Latin America and the Caribbean 2. Identify obstacles to emergency contraception provision in Latin America and the Caribbean
Keywords: Latin American,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None