The National Maternal and Child Health Centre (NMCHC) is partnering with the Mondulkiri Provincial Health Department to provide free contraceptive implant services. These will be available at Pou Chrey Health Centre and O’Am Health Centre from July 19-20.

Ben Ratana, director of maternal and child health at the Mondulkiri Provincial Health Department, said the initiative aims to reach everyone in the province’s five districts. The operation is a cooperative effort between the provincial health department and the NMCHC.

Pou Chrey Health Centre will cater to the residents of Pech Chreada district, while O’Am Health Centre will serve those living in Keo Seima district.

“The free service aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality, and mitigate pregnancy complications,” Ratana explained, and emphasised the value of the contraceptive implant service.

“It’s not just about preventing unplanned pregnancies. It’s about empowering women to plan their families, improving maternal and child health, and reducing anaemia,” she explained.

Ratana also noted that the service benefits mothers by allowing them time to care for their children and work.

The Reproductive Health Association of Cambodia (RHAC) endorsed contraceptive use as a way to space out births.

The three-to-five-year gap between children contributes to improved maternal and child health.

Among contraceptive methods, the subcutaneous implant is globally recognised, and enjoys popularity in Cambodia.

RHAC does caution that not all women can safely use subcutaneous implants. Those with liver disease, lung disease, abnormal bleeding, or on certain medications should avoid them.

Overall, Cambodia has seen an increase in the rate of women receiving antenatal care, from 95 per cent to 99 per cent. As a result, the maternal mortality rate has dropped from 174 to 154 per 100,000 live births, and infant mortality has fallen from 18 to eight per 1,000 live births.