Louern, a Cambodian mother of two, has come to listen to a presentation on family planning organised by the United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA. “My husband and I have already agreed that we are happy with two children. Now we can consider different methods of contraception together when I get home”, says Louern.

Family planning helps to make sure that every pregnancy is wanted. In 1990, only 13% of women living in sub-Saharan Africa were using some method of contraception. In 2014, the proportion of women using contraception more than doubled, climbing to 28%. Globally, the figure rose from 55% to 64% over the same time period. Access to contraception helps to bring down the numbers of unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions and maternal deaths.

The UNFPA is working to improve access to contraception particularly in poor and developing countries and to train local midwifes and healthcare professionals in providing family planning counselling and related services.  Finland is one of the most important supporters of the UNFPA.

Photo: UNFPA, graphics: Juho Hiilivirta