Women’s health checkup services on a decrease, says City of Cape Town

The City of Cape Town says it recorded a decrease in the number of women accessing family planning methods during the 2023/2024 financial year.

According to the Health Directorate, the number of women who used the its health facilities for family planning decreased by 13 465 from 343 440 the previous year to 329 975; the number of women enrolling for Basic Antenatal Care decreased from 21 034 to 20 702; new cases of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) declined from 22 988 to 20 443; and the number of women who have signed up for cervical smears showed a marginal increase from 28 621 to 29 057.

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In a statement, the city described the women’s health indicators as “a mixed bag”.

‘’Without knowing the reasons behind the decline, it is difficult to gauge just how concerned we need to be. I am however enthused by the number of women having cervical smears, but there is room for improvement. Some health services and concerns are far more visible and talked about than others, but City Health has a wide range of services specifically for women and I want to encourage them to exploit everything that is available to them. Women often put themselves and their needs last, behind those of their families. I want to remind them that taking care of their health is the best thing they can do for themselves, and their loved ones,’ said Patricia Van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

‘’There is also more to a family planning visit as it can include being screened for breast cancer. Pregnant women can book visits for Basic Antenatal Care (BANC) as soon as they know they are expecting. BANC is an integral part of primary health care and includes identifying potential risk factors and complications, the appropriate management of these, as well as general health and wellness education,’’ she added.

Furthermore, the City’s Matrix® Programme provides free alcohol and drug treatment services, but also hosts specific group sessions for women and includes topics such as trauma, parenting, self-image and sexuality. The Matrix® sites also offer the Women’s Health Coop programme that addresses issues such as gender based violence, substance use and HIV information. 

Van Der Ross encouraged women to make use of the City’s appointment system, whereby clients are given a date and a time for their appointment based on the preference of the patient, as well as appointment availability and urgency of care. The system includes all non-acute services.

 

Done by: Sihle Jezile