Prices of Contraceptives Increase by 7-10 Percent

As Mexico continues dealing with the economic impact of the pandemic and the new disruptions associated with the war in Ukraine, the country is seeing an increase in prices of many products, including contraceptives.

Contraceptive information and services are fundamental to the health and human rights of all individuals as, beyond preventing pregnancy, they reduce pregnancy-related morbidity and mortality. They also reduce the risk of developing certain reproductive cancers and can be used to treat many menstrual related symptoms and disorders. In Mexico, the higher costs of retail contraceptives are limiting access to those who need them.

The retail cost of contraceptives has reportedly increased by 7.7 percent. For example, the silver IUD, which lasts for three years, went from MX$1,630 (US$79.27) to MX$1,800 (US$87.54). The copper IUD, which lasts for 48 months, went from MX$724 (US$35.21) to MX$800 (US$38.91) and the contraceptive injection, which must be applied every three months to be effective, went from MX$543 (US$26.41) to MX$600 (US$29.18).

Contraceptive pills also increased in price. Most cost between MX$340 (US$16.53) and MX$376 (US$18.29), depending on the brand, but others are much more expensive. The 10 percent increase in cost is significant as they must be bought monthly. Boxes with five male condoms went from MX$153 (US$7.44) to MX$169 (US$8.22), while female condoms from MX$143 (US$6.95) to MX$158(US$7.68).

Ensuring the availability of quality contraceptives is a highly relevant commitment for the Mexican public sector. The Ministry of Health, through IMSS, provides temporary contraceptive methods for two to four months, including male and female condoms, injectable hormonal contraceptive pills and patch, copper T-IUD and emergency pill, Bilateral Tubal Occlusion and no-scalpel vasectomy.

The current economic scenario has also impacted other reproductive health products, such as menstrual health pads and tampons, which were expected to drop in cost after the measure that would make them tax-free went into effect earlier this year. Nonetheless, inflation erased any price reduction.