Family planning refers to the practice of controlling the number and spacing of children in a family through the use of contraception or other methods of birth control. It includes a wide range of activities, services, and health education efforts aimed at helping individuals and couples achieve their desired number of children and determine the spacing of pregnancies. Key components of family planning include:
Various methods such as oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices (IUDs), condoms, implants, injections, and natural family planning methods.
Providing information about sexual and reproductive health, contraceptive options, and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Health care that women receive before becoming pregnant to ensure they are in the best possible health before pregnancy.
Assistance for individuals and couples who are having difficulty conceiving.
Support for individuals and couples to make informed decisions about family planning, including discussions about the best contraceptive methods for their health and lifestyle.