In a spirited collaboration, the Ministry of Public Health, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), and Organon (Thailand) Ltd. have embarked on a mission to enlighten and empower with a campaign aimed squarely at addressing unplanned pregnancies in the Land of Smiles, Thailand. With a catchy slogan, “I’m Taking Control of My Birth Control,” this initiative isn’t just making waves—it’s potentially shifting tides.
The goal? Empowering Thai women with the knowledge and tools to access highly effective contraceptive implants across a network of participating hospitals. This proactive approach is woven into a broader tapestry aimed at tackling unplanned teenage pregnancies—a challenge that impacts not just family stability, but national well-being and development, too.
The campaign launch, held at the trendsetting Siam Discovery, wasn’t just about speeches and stats. It was a spotlight on the synergy between public and private sectors, all coming together under the “Love Yourself, Be Brave” banner. This project champions awareness around the necessity of birth control, the repercussions of unplanned pregnancies, and the impressive 99% efficacy of contraceptive implants. A highlight of the event was a lively panel featuring artists who candidly shared their real-world experiences and invaluable life lessons, all wrapped up in the importance of planning for a more confident approach to life.
Dr. Bunyarit Sukrat, who helms the Bureau of Reproductive Health at the Ministry of Public Health, eloquently stated, “Public health promotion is a pillar of our government’s agenda, with a spotlight on women’s health. Comprehensive family planning, along with precise birth control, forms the backbone of sustainable national growth.” By disseminating precise information and opening doors to top-notch reproductive health services, they’re giving individuals the autonomy to make informed choices regarding parenthood, tailored to their circumstances. This proactive stance minimizes health risks while fortifying family planning, fostering a population that supports a robust Thai society. Collaboration, as Dr. Sukrat notes, is the golden ticket to tackling these challenges at their genesis.
Thailand is navigating some demographic rapids, boasting an aging population against a backdrop of low birth rates—all while the specter of unplanned pregnancies, especially among adolescents, looms large. Though there’s been a downward trend in birth rates for women aged 10-19 over the past ten years, worrisome signs persist. Repeat pregnancies in the 10-14 age group are particularly alarming post a marked rise last year. The modus operandi? Expanding access to contraceptive implants nationwide, with nationwide coverage through National Health Security Office (NHSO)-affiliated centers, ensuring cost-free services to those in need.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tavida Kamolvej, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, introduced an initiative that aligns seamlessly with the campaign’s ethos—free contraceptive implant services for Thai women of reproductive age. Spread across 43 districts in Bangkok, these services are augmented by plans to mushroom the number of service centers to 50 by year-end, along with extended hours in areas teeming with youth. This deft strategy aims to curb unplanned teenage pregnancies while taking a swipe at repeat pregnancies, thanks to bespoke expert consultations and preventative measures.
Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Koen C. Kruijtbosch, Managing Director of Organon (Thailand) Ltd., reaffirmed Organon’s commitment to enhancing women’s daily health. Their operations synchronize with the APEC SMART FAMILIES policy, empowering women to steer their health and family planning, all the while adapting to evolving population structures and healthcare demands. Partnering with esteemed entities—including the Ministry of Public Health and global non-profit Jhpiego—they align on local and global platforms to advance the ‘APEC Smart Families Menu of Policy Options for Demographic Resilience’ with zeal.
The “Love Yourself, Be Brave” campaign, a formidable co-venture alongside the Department of Health, stands as this year’s beacon for World Contraception Day. It encourages girls and women alike to embrace effective contraception. “Organon’s drive,” as Maymay Mitisubin, External Affairs and Communications Lead at Organon (Thailand) Ltd., colorfully notes, “is to augment the health caliber of Thai women through initiatives that meet their needs across life stages.” Through collaborative gestures—from public and private institutions, to NGOs, and even the Children and Youth Council of Thailand—critical programs like Her Power are born. These ventures furnish comprehensive contraceptive insight and services, empowering adolescents, and especially bolstering vulnerable groups with crucial healthcare access.
Emphasizing the foundation of societal dialogue, Organon ardently believes in sparking conversations around contraception and the layered subject of unplanned pregnancies within the family fabric. In the words of Mr. Koen, “We are steadfast in crafting solutions that enrich women’s choices in healthcare and family planning because women are the bedrock of society, each deserving the utmost support for optimal health.”
For those eager to seize the opportunity of free contraceptive implants, comprehensive details await on the Department of Health’s website or by joining the lively LINE Official Account @Teen_Club to verify eligibility and pinpoint participating healthcare locales. A treasure trove of contraception knowledge beckons at www.womenhealthfact.com.
Finally! It’s about time women in Thailand have better access to contraceptives. It’s a right, not a privilege.
I agree, but why stop at implants? We should be including the pill and other forms too!
Absolutely, a broad approach would be ideal. But any step in the right direction is better than none.
I’m concerned about the influence of private companies, like Organon, in these campaigns. Could lead to biased information.
Shouldn’t we also be focusing on educating young men? Responsibility shouldn’t fall solely on women.
Exactly! This campaign should be about shared responsibility. Both genders play a role in birth control.
Agreed, Linda. Men need to be part of the conversation too. Education is key for everyone.
Isn’t this just promoting more promiscuity among teenagers? It’s like giving them a green light.
Promoting contraceptives doesn’t equate to promoting promiscuity. It’s about safety and health.
Exactly, Debbie. Education and access lead to informed decisions and healthier outcomes, not irresponsibility.
It’s troubling that teenage pregnancies are still high. More needs to be done on the educational front.
Education is definitely crucial, but let’s not forget support systems for teens who are already parents.
What about religious beliefs? Many families won’t support their daughters getting implants.
Valid point, Larry. Cultural sensitivity is important, but so is finding a balance with public health needs.
True, Gabi, but navigating this balance is tricky. No easy solutions here.
I love that they’re involving artists in this campaign. Art can reach people in ways statistics can’t.
Artists have a unique voice and can certainly raise awareness in compelling ways. More collaborations like this can lead to better engagement.
As a doctor, I support any effort to provide healthcare at no cost. Access is the first hurdle many face.
Totally agree, Peter. Healthcare shouldn’t be a luxury. It’s great to see you supporting this cause!
Thanks, Melissa. Providing access is crucial, but we need to maintain quality care too.
Involving local entities like the BMA is smart. Local connection means greater trust and efficiency.
Yes, Jenny, local partnerships can foster trust and make initiatives like this more impactful.
What about men getting vasectomies? Does this campaign address male contraceptives at all?
Good point, male contraceptives should also be a part of the conversation. It’s a shared responsibility.
The alarming rates of repeat pregnancies in young girls shock me. Free implants could really help here.
What happens in rural areas? Do these campaigns reach beyond Bangkok and major cities?
Rural areas are often left out of such initiatives. Hopefully, they find a way to expand it further.
Exactly, Iman. Every young woman, regardless of where she lives, deserves the same access.
These implants have 99% efficacy? That’s impressive. Hopefully, it encourages more to consider them.
I hope this leads to more open discussions about contraception. It’s time to normalize this conversation.