World Contraception Day (WCD) is observed annually in September to raise awareness about family planning and reproductive health. The 2026 theme, “No Barriers, Just Choices: Contraceptive Access Now", highlights the importance of removing barriers to contraception and ensuring equitable access to family planning services.

Contraception can support women's autonomy, dignity and opportunities by helping them prevent unintended pregnancies and safely space births. It also enables women and girls to make informed choices about their reproductive health and plan their futures.

Unplanned pregnancies can affect women's health, education and socio-economic opportunities. For young women, delaying pregnancy can also reduce the health risks associated with early childbearing.

In South Africa, public clinics provide free family planning services, without the need for medical aid or a referral. Adolescents aged 12 and older can access contraceptive services without parental consent.

The City of Johannesburg's health facilities offer a range of contraceptive methods, including:

• Oral contraceptives: Triphasil, Nordette and Microval
• Injectables: Nuristerate, which lasts two months, and Petogen, which lasts three months
• Implanon: lasts up to three years
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Mirena and Copper T, which last up to five years
• Male and female condoms

 
“Women and girls are encouraged to make use of the numerous contraceptive options offered by the City's Health Department. South Africa is one of the few developing countries where contraceptives are widely available free of charge," said Tebogo Mabubula, Manager: Public Health at the City of Johannesburg.

Written by Ayanda Radebe
30/09/2026

Recommended for you:

City clinics provide comprehensive healthcare services for women

Turffontein Clinic nears completion as final works resume

To stay informed about the latest developments in the city, connect with us at: 

X: @CityofJoburgZA
Facebook: City of Joburg
Instagram: CityofJoburg
TikTok: @CityofJoburg
LinkedIn: City of Johannesburg
YouTube: [CityOfJoburgZA](https://www.youtube.com/@CityOfJoburgZA/videos)