Contraception today and family planning: a comprehensive review and position statement on the ethical, medical, and social dimensions of modern contraception

In a society whose needs are constantly changing, family planning plays a central role for women, men, and sustainable development. This comprehensive review and position statement summarises the proceedings of a meeting on contraception held in Rome in March 2024, supported by major scientific societies in the field. The aim is to inform the medical community about current medical and ethical issues of contraception use. First, the review addresses the complex ethical, religious, and social dimensions of contraceptive use and access; second, it provides a comprehensive analysis of traditional and modern contraceptive methods, discussing their safety and effectiveness; third, it examines current knowledge about male hormonal contraception. When prescribing a contraceptive method, medical indications or contraindications must be integrated to women’s religious beliefs, the geopolitical context in which they live, the risk of violence, their need for self-determination and their right to make decisions for themselves. If a partner is involved, the couple’s dynamics and shared needs must be considered. Healthcare providers are responsible for providing them with all the information they need to make informed choices, while ensuring individual autonomy. This position statement provides recommendations on how to guide contraceptive choice and identifies knowledge gaps about contraception today.