In a remarkable shift across rural Rajasthan, newlywed and young couples are increasingly making conscious decisions to delay their first child and ensure adequate spacing between subsequent births. Motivated by a growing understanding of the health, emotional, and financial benefits of planned parenthood, many are now embracing reversible contraceptive methods such as Antara injections, oral pills, condoms, and intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs).
Experts believe this change marks a significant step forward in reproductive health awareness among rural communities. Dr. S.S. Shekhawat, Director of Family Welfare at the Directorate of Medical and Health Services, Jaipur, noted, “Maintaining an appropriate gap between births improves the health of mothers and ensures proper nutrition and care for newborns. It also contributes to the mental and financial stability of the family. Frequent pregnancies with short intervals can lead to high-risk deliveries and long-term health complications.”
To support this growing trend, the Vikalp project—implemented by Ipas Development Foundation—has been playing a pivotal role. Serving as the government’s technical support partner, Vikalp promotes awareness through community-based platforms like door-to-door counseling, Saas-Bahu Sammelans (interactive sessions between mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law), and Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Days (VHSNDs).
Mr. Arun Nair, State Project Director of Vikalp, emphasized, “Our goal is to create an enabling environment where couples can make well-informed reproductive choices. Over the past few months, we have seen growing adoption of the Antara injectable contraceptive, especially after targeted outreach through VHSNDs and community gatherings.”
To further empower women and couples, the Vikalp project also offers the ‘Sakhi’ helpline (Toll-Free Number: 1800 202 5862), available daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. The helpline provides confidential counseling on temporary contraceptive methods in simple and accessible language by trained counselors.
The impact of these efforts is already visible in rural households. One woman shared her story: “When the ASHA worker visited us after our wedding, she explained the benefits of delaying childbirth. That conversation changed our outlook. We chose the Antara injection and now feel more in control of our future.”
These stories reflect a broader transformation—where rural women are becoming active decision-makers in shaping their reproductive journeys. By choosing reversible contraception, they are not only protecting their health but also laying the foundation for a better quality of life for themselves and their families.
As this movement grows, it signals a future where reproductive autonomy, informed choices, and healthier communities become the norm across rural India.