Injectable contraceptive scheme ‘Antara’ launched

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, March 15

To strengthen the family planning programme in the district, the Health Department launched an injectable contraceptive programme, ‘Antara’, at the district Civil Hospital today. An awareness programme regarding the new scheme was also organised.

The injectable contraceptive DMPA (Depo medroxyprogesterone acetate) is highly effective as compared to the traditional birth control pills and would be available free of cost at the district hospital.

The core medical staff, including staff nurses and assisting staff members, were also present during the awareness workshop.

Sharing details about the injectable contraceptive, department officials said it needed to be used within a week from the day a woman’s menstrual cycle begins. Unlike birth control pills that need to be taken on a daily basis, DMPA injectables (contraceptives) are administered after a gap of three months.

HN Singh, Civil Surgeon, said, “These contraceptive injectables are highly effective, safer and most importantly the user do not have to face complications as compare to other forms of contraception. The training for doctors and health workers to administer and guide patients requiring the contraceptives has been completed.”