Liberia Sees 10% Adolescent Contraceptive Uptake Amid SRHR Review

Family planning experts emphasize the importance of involving men in contraceptive discussions, arguing that contraception should be a shared responsibility rather than solely a woman's issue. Advances in male contraception, such as the non-hormonal pill YCT-529 tested in Kenya, offer new options, though concerns about side effects like reduced libido still affect male acceptance. In Liberia, a mid-year review revealed that although 585,000 adolescents received family planning counseling, less than 10% adopted contraceptive use, highlighting challenges in uptake among youth. Meanwhile, in Western countries, a generational divide is emerging in contraceptive choices, with younger women increasingly favoring non-hormonal methods due to concerns about side effects on mental health and sexuality, urging healthcare providers to personalize contraception. These developments underscore the ongoing need for gender-inclusive, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based approaches to improve family planning outcomes globally. Calls for urgent action continue to strengthen sexual and reproductive health systems, particularly in regions facing low contraceptive adoption rates.