Contraceptive technology and family planning services.

A large variety of modern contraceptives is now available, including several means to administer hormonal contraception, highly effective long-term methods and simple sterilization techniques. Methods under research include immuno-contraceptives for women and men, hormonal methods for men, new approaches to female hormonal contraception and improved barrier methods. Modern contraceptives are effective and safe for most women, and some methods have beneficial health effects other than prevention of pregnancy. However, underlying health conditions may decrease the safety of a given method. The appropriate use of the technology available requires screening for biomedical conditions and counseling that enables the selection of methods according to the life style of women and couples. Contraceptive methods have had a considerable positive impact on maternal and infant health and on population growth, but unwanted pregnancies and unsafe abortion still occur in large numbers. This shows the need to improve access to and quality of family planning services including the availability of contraceptives, sensitive providers trained in technical matters and communication skills, and communication between the community, the providers and the managers.