The Gates Foundation is introducing a new contraceptive across several African nations, including Kenya, which will prevent pregnancy for a duration of 8 years, making it the first of its kind globally.
Anita Zaidi, who serves as the President of the Gates Foundation’s Gender Equality Division, stated that the foundation is launching the new hormonal IUD contraceptive in Kenya, Nigeria, and India.
A hormonal IUD is a long-term, reversible contraceptive device that is placed in the uterus and releases progestin, a synthetic hormone. This hormone thickens cervical mucus, which hinders sperm from reaching and possibly fertilizing an egg, and can also inhibit ovulation.
“A new hormonal IUD aimed at affordability and a user-friendly experience is being introduced in Kenya, Nigeria, and potentially India,” Zaidi mentioned.
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Injectable Contraceptives
Additionally, the foundation plans to distribute DMPA-SC, a self-injectable contraceptive, to over 35 countries worldwide, including 8 in Africa, such as the Republic of the Congo, Madagascar, Malawi, Nigeria, Senegal, Uganda, and Zambia.
According to Zaidi, these initiatives are part of the Gates Foundation’s $2.5 billion (Ksh324 billion) commitment to enhance research and development focused solely on women’s health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
The five key focus areas identified by the foundation include enhancing maternal health, which encompasses obstetric care, understanding gut health and nutrition, improving gynecological and menstrual health, broadening contraceptive options, and tackling sexually transmitted infections in women.