Faith Ndou
MASVINGO-In celebrating the International Women’s Month, the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) Masvingo will offer free insertions and removals of the Intra Uterine Contraception Device (IUCD) commonly known as the loop on 18 and 19 March.
Speaking on the initiative, ZNFPC Masvingo Marketing and Communications Officer, Beautrice Hlilokela (pictured) said the services will be provided at the ZNFPC clinic in Masvingo.
Hlilokela said the programme is part of broader efforts to empower women and promote reproductive health rights during International Women’s Month.
“This programme is part of our commitment to commemorating International Women’s Month by promoting women’s rights and empowering women to take control of their reproductive health,” she said.
She highlighted the effectiveness and convenience of the IUCD as a long-term contraceptive method.
“The IUCD is a highly effective long-term family planning method that can provide protection against pregnancy for up to 10 years once inserted. It is more than 99 percent effective and eliminates the need for daily contraceptive pills or frequent clinic visits,” Hlilokela explained.
Hlilokela also noted that the method offers flexibility for women who may wish to conceive in the future.
“The device can be easily removed if a woman decides to conceive, and fertility returns quickly after removal, making it a reliable and reversible option,” she said.
She added that the IUCD is suitable for a wide range of women.
“It is ideal for women who prefer a hormone-free contraceptive method, those who find it difficult to remember taking daily pills, breastfeeding mothers and women seeking a long-term family planning solution,” she said.
Hlilokela further emphasized the convenience and cost-effectiveness of the method.
“The IUCD does not interfere with sexual activity or daily routines and is considered a cost-effective option because it does not require ongoing supplies,” she noted.
However, she cautioned that the IUCD does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.
“It is important to note that the IUCD does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections, so women at risk are encouraged to use condoms for protection,” Hlilokela said.
