Sale and provision of injectable contraceptives in drug shops in developing countries: conclusions from a technical consultation

Abstract

In September 2013 a technical consultation held in Research Triangle Park NC USA concluded that in the developing world drug shops have the potential to play a much greater role in helping women and couples achieve their family planning intentions. Already an important source of health care products in many countries drug shops could expand access to a range of contraceptive methods particularly progestin-only injectable contraceptives. The group of 15 researchers and program experts found that sale of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is common in drug shops in some countries and that training policy research and advocacy interventions should be prioritized by funders and the family planning community. (excerpt)