Since 1991, the Government of Myanmar has adopted a policy of making contraceptives available in the public sector in response to the recognition that birth spacing is important for improvement of the health of women and children. Birth spacing services through the public sector were started in 1991. By early 1996, birth spacing activities were taking place in 33 townships, representing about 15% of population. The service provided COCs, DPMA and condoms at maternal and child health centers, rural health centers and rural health sub-center sites. IUD insertions are undertaken at township hospitals, maternal and child health centers and some rural health centers. Contraceptive users paid a user charge as part of a cost recovery scheme previously.