The World Health Organization has issued new global guidance designed to expand access to a wider range of safe and effective contraceptive choices.
Released in Geneva on 23 September 2026, the recommendations cover existing methods, alternative ways of using them and research priorities for future options. WHO says an estimated 164 million women who want to delay or avoid pregnancy are not currently using contraception.
What the new guidance recommends
The guidance supports extended or continuous use of combined oral contraceptive pills as alternatives to cyclical use. It also supports contraceptive implants for up to five years, which may reduce replacement procedures, clinic visits and associated costs.
WHO recommends mifepristone as an additional emergency contraception option when taken as soon as possible and within five days of unprotected sex. The organisation says the available evidence indicates doses of 10–50 mg are likely to be as safe and effective as other emergency methods.
More choice, with evidence-based limits
WHO also identified methods that require stronger evidence. It called for more research on ormeloxifene before inclusion in family-planning programmes and recommended against adding quinestrol-containing pills because of limited evidence and reports of serious adverse events.
The organisation is also developing the evidence base for future reversible male contraceptives. WHO reports that several hormonal and non-hormonal candidates are in advanced clinical trials and could potentially reach the market within five to ten years.
The guidance is intended to help governments update national policies. Availability and clinical suitability will continue to vary by country and individual circumstances.
This article summarises public WHO guidance and is not personal medical advice. People considering contraception should consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Source
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