Illustration of different types of contraceptives.

Contraceptives for all

The right to decide over one's own body includes the right to choose if, when and with whom to have children. RFSU works to ensure that modern, high-quality contraceptives are available, affordable and accessible to everyone regardless of their situation or where they live.

Across the globe, the growing use of modern contraceptives has led to a reduction in maternal mortality, reduced poverty and higher school attendance for girls and women.

Access to a full spectrum of modern contraceptives saves lives and is fundamental for people to be able to decide whether and when they wish to have children.

Still a grand need

Up to 218 million women of reproductive age (age 15-49) in low and middle-income countries seeking to avoid pregnancy lack access to modern contraception.

In Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean and North America, contraceptive use is around 70 per cent of women of reproductive age. In Central and West Africa, however, only about 25 per cent use modern contraceptives.

A focus on marginalised groups

RFSU is working to increase the availability of contraceptives for the most disadvantaged groups. Groups with the least access include poor women and girls, adolescents, persons with disabilities, LGBIQI persons, indigenous groups and ethnic/racial minorities.

Updated: 07 apr 2026

Published: 20 dec 2023