Collaboration between Brazil and ICA Foundation began in May 2006 and is ongoing today. Brazil’s program aims to train public sector professionals in the counseling and device insertion/removal technique, as well as the introduction of the LNG-IUS into large public institutions in Brazil. The program officers have collaborated with Bayer Schering Pharma to obtain approval from the Federal Ministry of Health to register the LNG-IUS as an essential drug in Brazil, facilitating its importation and distribution throughout the country. Additionally, research studies are to be conducted, evaluating the pharmacoeconomics of the LNG-IUS distribution system to inform the local MOH and possibly expand reach. The primary partnership driving these programs is with CEMICAMP, the Center for Mother and Child Research of Campinas, and is directed by Dr. Luis Bahamondes.

CEMICAMP is the research branch of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Campinas. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to research in reproductive health and in evaluation of programs, contraceptive introduction and violence against women. The Human Reproductive Unit of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology conducts in-house training for medical residents from their own institution and other public institutions devoted to family health working within public network of health posts.

Since the program’s initiation in 2006, Brazil has received a total of 4000 LNG-IUS devices, available for distribution from CEMICAMP trained medical providers. Throughout Brazil’s collaboration with the ICA Foundation, LNG-IUS distribution and FP services have been expanding the number of participating health centers as well as the reach of its program to low-income women. Twelve centers throughout the country have incorporated the LNG-IUS into their reproductive health programs.