Access to contraception during the Covid-19 pandemic: barriers and perspectives

Abstract

Background The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, which started in December 2019, was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an international public health emergency in January 2020, with an impact on access to sexual and reproductive health services for women. Objective To discuss contraception in the pandemic context, based on current public policies and the world and Brazilian scenario. Method This is an opinion article, which describes the barriers and possible solutions for access to qualified sexual and reproductive health care for women. Results Relevant topics were explored, such as: the change in the logistics of services, the reduction in the number of consultations, the difficulty in importing contraceptives, the lack of trained professionals, and the bureaucratization of access to contraceptives methods. The use of telemedicine and the strengthening of Primary Health Care are considered strategies to guarantee access and change the reality of women. Conclusion In this context, it is necessary to maintain the actions of sexual and reproductive planning services to prevent injuries from unplanned pregnancies and increase maternal morbidity and mortality.