South Africa’s (SA) Gauteng Department of Health has expressed serious concern over low contraceptive uptake among women of reproductive age, identifying it as a primary driver of unplanned pregnancies across the province.
Speaking on the eve of World Contraception Day, department Spokesperson Steve Mabona revealed that between 59% and 61% of pregnancies in Gauteng are classified as unintended or unplanned.
Public healthcare statistics show that only 32% of eligible women accessed contraceptive services during the first quarter of the 2026/2027 financial year, falling significantly short of the provincial target of 43%.
Mabona highlighted that although various contraceptive options remain available free of charge at public health facilities, low uptake and inconsistent use persist due to widespread myths, misconceptions, and gaps in community awareness regarding reproductive rights.
–ChannelAfrica–
