Bangladesh Faces Critical Condom Shortage as National Fertility Rate Rises

Bangladesh is facing a sharp condom shortage that may last at least one month early next year. Health officials say supplies are running out fast across the country. The shortage comes at a time when the national fertility rate is climbing. The report was first noted by The Daily Star and later echoed by major outlets, including Reuters. The main keyword for this article is condom shortage.The problem began after years of reduced funding and staff gaps in family planning services. Officials say these issues slowed procurement and reduced distribution. The lack of contraception now risks worsening the rise in the total fertility rate.

Condom Shortage Creates Urgent Public Health Concern

Bangladesh’s Directorate General of Family Planning is struggling to maintain supplies of key contraceptives. According to The Daily Star, condom stocks may be fully exhausted in 38 days. The agency already reported only 39 days of supply as of December 11, 2025. This is the lowest level seen in years.Other contraceptives are also in decline. Supplies of oral pills fell by 63 percent in six years. IUD stock dropped by 64 percent, injectables by 41 percent, and implants by 37 percent. These steady declines began in 2019 and continued through 2025.Officials blame legal delays in procurement and shortages of field workers. The workers are essential, as they deliver contraceptives and guide families on safe planning. According to the report, some hiring was halted due to legal cases. This created gaps in remote districts where families rely on door-to-door services.Reuters noted that the rising fertility rate adds pressure to the health system. Officials say the condoms may be restocked once procurement issues are resolved. But they warn there will still be at least a one‑month gap where no supplies are available nationwide.

Impact on Fertility and Family Planning Across Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s total fertility rate rose this year for the first time in 50 years. The recent Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey found the rate increased to 2.4, up from 2.3 last year. Experts say this rise links directly to declining access to contraceptives.A professor of Population Sciences at Dhaka University told The Daily Star that many couples are less interested in family planning today. Some families are choosing to have more than two children. The lack of modern contraception could accelerate this trend.Officials worry the condom shortage will push unplanned pregnancies higher. This could place extra pressure on hospitals and family welfare centers. It may also affect low‑income families that rely heavily on free supplies.The shortage highlights long‑term challenges in procurement, funding, and staffing. Health experts say sustained investment is needed to stabilize the system. They warn that delays today may lead to bigger population and health pressures in the years ahead.

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The condom shortage in Bangladesh is now a major national concern. Officials hope supplies will return soon, but the gap may drive the fertility rate higher. The country faces a critical moment for public health and family planning.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Bangladesh facing a condom shortage?

The shortage comes from delayed procurement and reduced funding. Legal issues slowed purchasing. Staff shortages also disrupted distribution.

Q2: How long will the condom shortage last?

Officials expect at least a one‑month gap. Supplies may return once legal barriers are cleared.

Q3: How low are contraceptive stocks now?

Condom stock is at 39 days. Other contraceptives also show steep drops since 2019.

Q4: How is the fertility rate changing?

The fertility rate rose to 2.4 this year. Experts link the increase to declining contraception access.

Q5: What is the role of field workers?

They deliver supplies and offer guidance to families. Staff shortages have made it harder to maintain regular services.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, The Daily Star, Associated Press, BBC News