“Whether it be to spice up an inexpensive night in or avoid having an extra mouth to feed, we’ve definitely seen an increase in the number of requests for contraception at our centres over the last few months,” said Jill Michelson, General Manager of Operations for Marie Stopes International.
The noted demand comes as sales of condoms in the U.S. have reportedly risen 5 percent in the fourth quarter of 2008, and 6 percent in January compared to the same periods last year.[1]
“Our centres have free condoms on offer, and team members have been kept busy refilling the condom bowls on our reception counters as clients stock up on supplies!” said Ms Michelson.
“At Marie Stopes International we actively promote contraception, as being in control of your fertility empowers you to choose the timing, spacing and size of your family.
“And at a time of economic uncertainty, getting your contraception sorted is a very important thing to do to ensure you avoid any unplanned surprises.”
To help men and women with their contraception choices, Marie Stopes International has recently launched www.contraceptioninfo.com.au. The website includes comprehensive information on the contraception options available to men and women, detailing the advantages, considerations and reliability of each method.
“In our day-to-day dealings with women and men, we’ve found that a lot of people aren’t aware of the many different contraception options available today, and therefore may not be using the ideal method for them,” said Ms Michelson.
“The type of contraception you choose should depend on your personal circumstances – your age, your way of life, whether or not you have children, your health and the need to avoid pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
“And it is vital to remember that the only form of contraception that protects you against both STIs and pregnancy is a condom, and the only way to make sure your sexual health is in the clear is to have regular STI check ups.”
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About Marie Stopes International: Marie Stopes International is a not-for-profit sexual and reproductive healthcare provider, with centres in the ACT, VIC, NSW, QLD and WA. MSI offers a range of services, including abortion, vasectomy, sexually transmitted infection check-ups, contraception and community-based health promotion and education. The organisation is part of a global international partnership that delivers vital health services to over five million people in 42 countries worldwide. Surplus funds support Marie Stopes International Australia, our charity partner, which works to save lives and improve sexual and reproductive health in Indigenous Australia and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
For media enquiries contact: Kath Markov, Public Relations - 0421 097 150
