MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Following concerns about the low supply of birth control at the public clinics in Mossel Bay, the stock levels have recently largely been stabilised.
This is according to the South African Medical Association (Sama) and the Western Cape Health and Wellness Department.
The shortage resulted in birth control being temporarily unavailable to patients who receive their contraceptives from public clinics in Mossel Bay and in other provinces across South Africa.
"These shortages were linked to national supply and procurement challenges," said Sama.
Mossel Bay resident Liezl Jenkerson told Mossel Bay Advertiser the two brands of birth control she has been using for several years, Triphasil and Trigesteril, were usually free and easy to obtain, but they suddenly became difficult to get a hold of at the public clinic she frequently visits.
Jenkerson said her main concern was for those members of the Mossel Bay community who are unable to afford contraceptives and rely on its free access at public clinics.
Although birth control is most commonly associated with contraception, hormonal contraceptives are also widely used for hormone regulation, the management of severe menstrual cramps and the treatment of acne.
"For many patients, consistent access to these medications is therefore critical not only for family planning, but also for managing ongoing health conditions and maintaining overall well-being," says Sama.
The association said patients from a lower-income background without medical aid may be forced to go without treatment altogether or have significant out-of-pocket costs at private clinics, placing women and vulnerable communities at increased risk of unplanned pregnancies, untreated health conditions and broader social and economic consequences.
The Department of Health and Wellness has confirmed that Triphasil in particular was out of stock at the suppliers, however, the estimated time of availability was in February.
"At this stage, no official reasons have been communicated [with the public] regarding the stock shortage, as the product has not been formally discontinued.
"However, patients attending clinics are informed by healthcare providers of available alternatives and counselled accordingly," said the department.
Free alternatives to birth control include injectable contraception, implants, intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) and permanent options such as tubal ligation, where appropriate.
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