Trends in Contraceptive Use in Colombia: An Analysis of Daily Defined
Doses (DDD) and Shifts in Preference
Abstract
Introduction: A decline in fertility rates is observed in
Colombia and globally, with contraceptive use significantly contributing
to this trend. Daily Defined Doses (DDD) of contraceptives per 1,000
females aged 15 to 49 (DID) provide insights into strategies for
reducing unwanted pregnancies. This study aims to identify patterns of
contraceptive use in Colombia by type and develop explanatory hypotheses
regarding changes over time. Methods: Data on the female
population of childbearing age (15 to 49 years) from the Unique Database
of Affiliates (BDUA) and units sold of contraceptives from the Drug
Price Information System (SISMED) were extracted and integrated by date.
The units per commercial presentation and type of contraceptive were
manually verified using health records from INVIMA, allowing for the
assignment of DID for each contraceptive and analysis of trends over
time. Results: The DID reveals a significant increase from 101
in 2020 to 128 in 2022, followed by a return to almost previous levels
(102) in 2023. The share of combined oral contraceptives (COC)
progressively increased, replacing monthly injections and Depot
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate by 2023. A month-by-month analysis shows a
trend toward increased use of high-dose levonorgestrel-releasing
intrauterine devices and subcutaneous implants, alongside reduced use of
oral contraceptives and Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate.
Conclusions: These trends reflect a shift in contraceptive
preferences among practitioners and women of reproductive age. Future
research should continue to monitor these patterns and assess the
implications for public health policies related to reproductive health
and family planning in Colombia.