Among the use of the modern contraceptive methods intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD), pills and condoms are most popular and 72 percent of women receive them free of charge.

That was not always easy to achieve, particularly since medical literature itself was not in agreement on the use of intrauterine contraceptive devices.

The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare research findings testify to the easy availability of condoms (67%), intrauterine contraceptives having been the most difficult to obtain (34%).

General policy regarding health care for women had not improved, but reproductive health facilities had progressed, with more cervical cancer screening, greater attendance at prenatal classes, greater use of the contraceptive pill and less use of intrauterine contraceptive devices.

The fact that medical officers were able to object to the insertion of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) was also an obstacle to the free choice of women in the matter of contraception.

All the modern methods of contraception are available in Azerbaijan. There is, however, a preference for oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices and barrier contraceptives (condoms and natural methods).

* Including women registered as using intrauterine and oral contraceptive methods, as a percentage of women 15-49 years old.

Among contraceptives, oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices are most often prescribed ones.

As to whether the insertion of intrauterine contraceptive devices on the basis of the moral or religious convictions of the person supplying it represented an obstacle to a woman's free choice, she said that once again a delicate balance had to be sought between the rights of the client and those of the person supplying the service.

Table A.II.6 Use of intrauterine devices and oral contraceptives, 2000-2004