Challenges and Mitigation Strategies in Providing Family Planning Services during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Health-care Providers’ Perspectives from Rural and Urban Public Health Facilities in Maharashtra, India

The World Health Organization conducted a multicountry study to identify the challenges and barriers faced by health-care providers (HCPs) in delivering family planning (FP) services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Focused on two districts in Maharashtra using qualitative methods, the study revealed shift in contraceptive demand toward short-term options due to fear associated with health facility visits. Postpandemic recovery involved restarting sterilization camps and improved contraceptive availability. HCPs faced workplace challenges, hindering FP outreach. Notably, Accredited Social Health Activists played crucial role in delivering supplies and boosting temporary method use. Recommendations include ensuring dedicated workforce readiness, maintaining depot supplies, and promoting accessible methods for future emergencies.