20 Essential Resources: Contraceptive Product Introduction

This collection, titled 20 Essential Resources: Contraceptive Product Introduction, aims to support program planners and implementers in analyzing whether to make new contraceptive technologies available and how best to do so. The collection encompasses a wide range of topics, including program design, product registration, quantification, provider training, marketing and demand creation, and method-specific guides. The resources included in the collection are a mix of publications, videos, and online tools, ranging from seminal works to cutting-edge approaches published in recent years. These resources were identified through a thorough review of the literature and expert input. The introduction of new contraceptive products has the potential for far-reaching impact, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where women often report health concerns and infrequent sex as the top reasons for non-use of contraception. The launch and scale-up of more contraceptive choices can support finding a method that suits an individual's needs and preferences, prevents unintended pregnancies, and fulfills their reproductive intentions. The collection includes eight resources on program design, which help users plan the process of product introduction and scale-up. These resources cover country-level planning and global market-shaping interventions. Additionally, the collection includes a guide on product registration, which prepares program managers to work with manufacturers and regulatory experts to support contraceptive product registration. The quantification section of the collection includes three tools that walk users through the steps of forecasting and supply planning, with special considerations outlined for new products. These tools are essential for predicting future consumption and ensuring adequate supply of new contraceptive methods. The provider training package is also included, which is key for preparing family planning providers to offer new and existing methods. The marketing and demand creation section of the collection includes two tools that can strengthen efforts to inform consumers of their options, including new contraceptive methods. These tools apply the discipline of marketing to support the introduction of new contraceptive products. Finally, the collection includes five method-specific guides that provide concrete examples and considerations for both self-administered and provider-administered contraceptive products. The 20 Essential Resources: Contraceptive Product Introduction collection is a valuable resource for program planners and implementers working to introduce new contraceptive products. By providing a comprehensive set of resources, the collection supports the launch and scale-up of more contraceptive choices, ultimately contributing to broader efforts to expand method choice and support people to achieve their reproductive intentions.