Pharma Dynamics launches South Africa’s first generic hormone IUD to increase contraceptive access

SOUTH AFRICA—Pharma Dynamics has entered the medical device market with the launch of South Africa’s first generic hormone-releasing intrauterine device (IUD), offering a lower-cost option to improve access to long-acting contraception.

The 52mg levonorgestrel IUD offers a clinically equivalent alternative to higher-priced brands and could help reduce one of the biggest barriers to wider use: affordability.

In South Africa, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods such as IUDs make up less than 2% of the country’s contraceptive method mix, despite their strong safety record, convenience, and effectiveness.

According to Ingrid Singels, associate director of Pharma Dynamics’ scientific division, upfront cost has long limited uptake.

“Although IUDs are cost-effective over time, the initial price has kept them out of reach for many women,” said Singels.

“Other barriers include limited access to public healthcare facilities, gaps in provider training, and persistent myths surrounding IUD use.”

Expanding contraceptive choice

Hormone-releasing IUDs prevent pregnancy through several mechanisms.

They thicken cervical mucus, reduce sperm movement and survival, and thin the uterine lining.

Globally, IUDs rank among the most widely used reversible contraceptive methods, with more than 150 million users.

However, South Africa continues to rely heavily on injectable contraceptives.

About 47% of women who use contraception choose either the two-month or three-month injectable option.

Singels said more affordable IUDs could broaden access to longer-term methods.

“Highly effective options such as IUDs have remained inaccessible for many South African women,” she said.

“Lower-cost alternatives can help both healthcare providers and patients consider long-acting contraception more confidently.”

High effectiveness and fast return to fertility

Hormone-releasing IUDs offer efficacy rates comparable to permanent sterilisation while remaining fully reversible.

International clinical studies tracking women who used the 52mg levonorgestrel IUD for six years reported effectiveness of about 99%.

For women planning future pregnancies, fertility usually returns quickly after removal.

Research shows that more than 85% of women seeking pregnancy conceive within one year of removing the device, regardless of age, previous pregnancies or how long they used the IUD.

“For women who want dependable contraception without affecting future fertility, IUDs provide reassurance,” Singels said.

Additional benefits for heavy menstrual bleeding

Beyond contraception, hormone-releasing IUDs are also used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding, defined as blood loss of 80mL or more during a menstrual cycle.

This condition affects up to one in three women at some stage of life.

Clinical studies show menstrual blood loss can decline by more than 80% within 12 months of insertion.

Many women also report lighter periods, occasional spotting, or no bleeding over time.

“These results can be life-changing,” Singels said.

“Heavy bleeding affects physical health, work, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.”

South Africa records high levels of unplanned pregnancy, estimated at 64% of all pregnancies, increasing pressure to improve access to reliable long-acting contraceptive options.