The Gauteng Department of Health has expressed concern over the low uptake of contraceptives among women of reproductive age, which it says continues to drive unintended pregnancies.
According to the Department, only 32.45% of eligible women accessed contraceptive services in the first quarter of 2026/27, below the 43% target. Nationally, an estimated 75% of unintended pregnancies are linked to low contraceptive use.
The Department said this has increased demand for free Termination of Pregnancy services at public facilities and attributed the low uptake to myths and misinformation about side effects and infertility.
It urged women and girls to use free contraceptive services available at all public health facilities, including implants, IUDs, injectables and oral pills, saying the benefits far outweigh potential side effects.
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