Family planning concern

BUBIA Clinic’s certified family planning nurse Sister Lisa Bopi says there has been no supply of contraceptives in the last two years.
“This is unfortunate given an increase in women seeking family planning services,” she said.
Bopi urged the Government to prioritise family planning services to help resolve related socio-economic issues.
She was trained and certified by Marie Stopes PNG (MSPNG) in 2019 to offer services in her clinic.
“More awareness saw an increased interest with majority demanding contraceptive implants as it was more convenient,” she said.
“Implants in the clinic increased from 15 in 2019 to 42 last year.”
Bopi said drug supplies given by MSPNG had run out late last year.
“Since then, I have been referring clients to Marie Stopes in Lae or to buy their own supply from pharmacies,” she said.
“We receive women from rural villages who come for services, but sadly, we had to turn them away.
“Officers in charge of drug supply in the province must order much more for our area medical stores and respective clinic bosses must order and distribute to those of us trained.”
Bopi said some couples were resorting to permanent long-term contraceptive methods such as Tubal Ligation or Vasectomy.
“The Government needs to do more with regards to family planning,” she said.
“I fear the individual and community impact if there is no intervention in family planning.
“Couples having too many children with no proper spacing will give rise to health, socio-economic issues.”