28 October 2003

The Western Cape has launched a 24-hour toll-free hotline for information and referrals on emergency contraception - the first of its kind in Africa.

The hotline - 0800 246 433 - is a public-private partnership between the provincial health department, the University of Stellenbosch, the World Population Foundation, and private clinic Medi-Challenge.

"There is a perception - that we need to change - that emergency contraception causes an abortion", said the provincial health department's deputy director-general of reproductive health, Marie Adamo.

"One young woman told me that teenagers do not get information on emergency contraception from parents and at schools, and they are also shy to go to clinics", Adamo said, adding that young people were more comfortable talking to people on the phone than face-to-face.

"The trained professionals at the call centre will be able to advise young people and give correct information about emergency contraception without passing any judgements", she said.

The call centre is funded by the World Population Foundation, while Stellenbosch University provides infrastructure and research, and Medi-Challenge and the provincial department of health supply the medicines.

Source: BuaNews

SA Aids vaccine trials start Temporary IDs for voters A Taste of South Africa: the CD SA chef caters for Lufthansa Awards for investment achievers Canada's R3.85m boost for Nepad Joburg airport: the best in Africa SA, Germany strengthen ties SA, Flanders sign R30m arts deal Guidelines to employ the disabled

BuaNews Online
Quick & easy access to government-related news, features & information.


SABCnews.com
Online news from South Africa's national broadcaster.


South Africa, Africa & the world - 24/seven.


Breaking news - in Afrikaans.

	Extending healthcare to schools Free health care for the disabled Cape Gateway call centre Be faithful - or use a condom Free health services for the poor

	Western Cape Government

Aids Helpline
0800 012 322
Frightened, confused by Aids? South Africa's national Aids Helpline offers multi-lingual, 24-hour, toll-free assistance by trained counsellors accessing the most current data available through a computerised call centre. Backed up by the Aid Helpline website.


Personal crisis help services
I need help and I need it now! Wherever you are, whatever the time of day, and however bad it is ... here's someone to call.