World Contraception Day promotes reproductive health awareness

World Contraception Day is observed annually on September 26 to raise awareness regarding sexual and reproductive health, family planning, and the importance of informed decision-making.

Global data from the UNFPA indicates significant challenges in contraceptive access, noting that millions of women lack access to modern methods, leading to unintended pregnancies. In North Macedonia, HERA reports that only 11% of young women use condoms and 14% use modern contraception, highlighting a need for financial accessibility through inclusion in the Positive List of Medicines.

In Bangladesh, challenges include high rates of child marriage and unintended pregnancies, with officials planning a national action plan to improve service delivery to vulnerable groups. Discussions around the day also emphasize the link between reproductive autonomy and broader human rights, including the necessity of safe healthcare services and the reduction of barriers to essential contraceptive products.