In an effort to promote family planning and contraceptive methods in the nation, Marie Stopes PNG is providing Vasectomy and Circumcision services at their centres in Port Moresby from 2nd-5th April and on the 8th-12th in its Lae centres. Marie stopes has been operating in PNG for over 17 years since its establishment in 2006 and has been working towards advocating and providing family planning methods in the nation. Vasectomy is a part of the family planning methods that they advocate men on since unlike temporary methods that require ongoing management, a Vasectomy offers a one-time solution to prevent pregnancy. That is according to Ivy Karue, Marie Stopes PNG’s Digital Communications and Events Coordinator in an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG today. She stated that their organization has been providing Vasectomy and Circumcision services since its establishment. “We used to provide Vasectomy and Circumcisions, but we have been without a trained provider to carry out the procedure.” A Vasectomy is permanent and is one of the most effective kinds of birth control and while over the years a few men come to the clinic for the service. Karue stated that there has been an encouraging increase in the number of males that come in to the clinic in recent years for this service. “We encourage males over the age of 50 with families to get vasectomies but we discourage young men as they may still have hopes to build a family one day.” Additionally, Marie Stopes is advocating on the benefits of the circumcision services that they provide as a way to advocate against STIs. Karue spoke on the importance of circumcision as well saying that it can help prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases and reduce other infections. “Circumcision can prevent STIs as well as reduce the risk of other infections. It’s all about hygiene-when the foreskin is removed, there are less dirt and fluids that sits in there and it allows for the penis to be easily cleaned to reduce the risk of STIs and other infections.” “Marie Stopes provide Vasectomy and Circumcision services in all our centres within the country. It is not compulsory, but men are encouraged to have it done.” Furthermore, she stated that at the clinic, men with children are encouraged to get a vasectomy as it is easier and not much pressure will be placed on the female partner to undergo any contraceptive methods. Men are encouraged to walk in to the Marie Stopes Center at Ume Street, Gordons and book your appointment or if you have any questions, you can reach them on their Facebook page or on WhatsApp 72161344. Other services provided are penile corrective procedures that do repair work because of failed fluid injectors sold on the streets. “The most protective method of contraception are condoms so it’s better to use them and abstain.” “Do take note that having a vasectomy does not safe guard you from getting infected with HIV or other STIs.” Meanwhile Marie Stopes PNG is currently recruiting male service providers so that they can have a daily intake of vasectomy and circumcision patients