Medroxyprogesterone contraceptive injection or DMPA injection is the most preferred family planning method used by over 30,000 women annually across the country. But BHUs in Trashigang are running out of DMPA injections
Health workers said they have only limited stock, which will last only for about a month. The Kanglung BHU has collected the current stock from nearby BHUs and hospital.
“Till date the contraceptives are supplied by UNFPA starting early 1980s and till 2011. And UNFPA has a long-term agreement with the suppliers. Now the suppliers has not agreed to renew because of the Health Ministry has issued a circular,” said Tshewang Dorji, Sr. Dzongkhag Health Officer, Trashigang.
However, he added that it is not out of stock. They are rationing the existing stock. “Meanwhile, the government is having dialogue with the government of India to supply. So before reaching the new stock, we have to sustain the old sock.”
To address the shortage, BHU’s in Trashigang have been providing DMPA injection to only those who had second childbirth. Others have been asked to use other contraceptive methods like pills and condoms.
Further woman above 35 years of age are encouraged to go for long-term family planning method like copper T. The measures have been implemented following a circular from the Ministry.
Till June this year, over 500 women used DMPA injection to control birth in Kanglung BHU alone. Last year more than 980 women availed themselves of the facility.
“I think most women prefer DMPA because it is convenient and they have to come to the hospital once in three months only. Officer workers as well as farmers prefer this as it takes less time,” said Sangay.
