THE INTRODUCTION AND USE OF NORPLANT(R) IMPLANTS IN INDONESIA

In this study, patterns of Norplant(R) use in Indonesia are reviewed t o assess the implications oft his experience for the introduction of n ew contraceptive methods. Data from the Norplant Use-Dynamics Study an d the 1994 Indonesia Demographic and Health Survey are analyzed, and p atterns of acceptance, continuation, and removal are described. Accept ance of Norplant has increased steadily since it was first introduced. The method is now used by more than 5 percent of all married women of reproductive age. Continuation rates among Norplant users are higher than among users of the IUD. One factor behind high continuation rates may be that a substantial proportion of acceptors were not told that removal before five years was possible. Results indicate that deficits occurred in the quality of service delivery and that a need exists fo r improved provider training, better supervision, and clearer and bett er-enforced guidelines regarding women's right to have Norplant remove d on demand.