The Center for Reproductive Health Policy and Programs aims to increase access to quality reproductive health services in low- and middle- income countries. Through a continuous cycle of applied research and evidence-based programming, the Center works closely with government, NGO partners, and other stakeholders to achieve this objective.

The current focus of the Center’s work is the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), one of the most disadvantaged countries in the world. With an estimated population of 88 million, current projections estimate that it will grow to nearly 200 million by 2050, making it the 9th largest country in the world. The maternal mortality rate of 693 per 100,000 is the 10th highest in the world. On average, Congolese women bear 6.6 children over their lifetime.

Nearly a third of women in DRC (28%) have an unmet need for contraception, and a quarter of all births are unplanned.

Tulane is dedicated to improving reproductive health indicators in the DRC and elsewhere through strong collaboration with local partners, innovative programming, and robust research.

CHAI Study

This pilot study will assess the feasibility of using informal drugstore operators as a source of modern contraceptives and generate evidence supporting policy changes in the national health system for FP service delivery.

EC Research

The objective of this research was to build the evidence base on emergency contraceptive services availability and quality in small, private pharmacies operating throughout Kinshasa via a mystery client study.

Packard Project

This project aims to support Tulane’s long-time and most successful implementing partner, SANRU, as they develop and pilot their own community-based model to provide quality SRH services to youths and adolescents living in Kinshasa.