On Wednesday, August 16, 2023, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) presented Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) equipment to the National Family Planning Board.The Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices offer a trustworthy birth control option and empowers girls and women through family planning.This donation also plays a part in the UNFPA reaching it’s zero goal by 2030; zero unmet need for contraception, zero preventable maternal deaths and zero violence or harmful practices against women and girls
Speaking at the Ceremony where the presentation was made, Elizabeth Talbert, the Director and Representative at the United Nations Population Fund Sub-regional Office for the Caribbean spoke on the importance of the accessibility of this equipment. Ms Talbert stated that “Adolescent pregnancy has a ripple effect that touches every aspect of society, and 49.9 percent of all births were to adolescent girls aged 15-19 in 2019.” She also voiced that “Unintended pregnancies have far-reaching consequences, especially among young people.” She said it was imperative that both young men and women are equipped with accurate information, debunk myths, and empower them to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.
NFPB Executive Director Dr. Lovette Byfield also spoke at the ceremony. She expressed that the NFPB recognized the urgency to address the issue of teenage pregnancy and the need to support women with quality contraceptive options.
The National Family Planning Board has been working to increase awareness and capacity of healthcare providers to deliver long-acting reversible contraceptives. Additionally, the IUD is a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) method that holds the promise of transforming the lives of countless individuals.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the branch of the United Nations responsible for sexual and reproductive health.The aim of the UNFPA is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is desired, every birth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled.
