Story by Courage Bushe
ZVISHAVANE District, through the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC), has commenced the distribution of the Sayana Press contraceptive, a measure anticipated to significantly reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies.
The Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) in Midlands province has intensified efforts to promote long-acting reversible contraceptive methods amid heavy reliance on short-term options, particularly oral pills, by women in the province.
As part of efforts to expand contraceptive choices, ZNFPC is promoting the Sayana Press self-care contraceptive method, which allows women to administer the injection at home.
“Sayana Press prioritises autonomy, privacy, and access. Unlike traditional injectables, it can be self-administered, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits,” said a beneficiary.
“We want to thank ZNFPC for coming up with this kind of contraceptive method, which, in my opinion, is good for us because it will lessen the burden of travelling long distances to get contraceptives and the frequency of getting it,” said another.
Authorities have expressed optimism about its potential to fill the void left by other contraceptives.
“Sayana Press is safe and highly effective at preventing pregnancy, simple to use, small and light, with a short needle and suitable for self-injection. It offers a convenient, effective, and user-friendly contraceptive option, particularly in remote or under-served areas,” noted Mandava Clinic Nurse in Charge, Mr Itai Moyo Mandava.
This will also lead to increased contraceptive access, enhance privacy, and require fewer clinic visits. Unlike the common Depo-Provera, Sayana has a shorter needle of 1cm compared to Depo-Provera’s 2.5 cm- 3.8 cm,” noted Provincial Family Planning Champion for the Midlands Province in Zimbabwe, Mercury Chanetsa.
ZNFPC believes sustained community engagement, improved access to long-term contraception, and greater male participation are key to improving reproductive health outcomes in the province.
