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Background: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes that the contraceptive prevalence rate and the unmet demand for family planning are crucial metrics for gauging advances in access to reproductive health. Contraceptives however, can release a range of chemicals and hormones into the environment, with potential consequences for human and ecological health. Furthermore, the production, distribution, and disposal of contraceptives may generate significant carbon emissions, waste, and other environmental burdens.

Aim/research questions: The aim of this scoping review was to systematically map and summarize the existing literature on the environmental impacts of different types of contraceptives, including their production, use, disposal, and potential effects on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. This review was guided by there search question: What is known about the environmental impacts of different types of contraceptives, including their production, use, and disposal?

Methodology: The methodology for this scoping review on contraceptives and the environment involved developing a comprehensive search strategy using multiple databases and sources. Inclusion criteria were established for study selection, and data extraction was conducted to extract key information. Data analysis included organizing and categorizing the extracted information to identify patterns and themes.

Results and Conclusions: The contextual variables identified across the 20 studies included in this review were grouped into four broad categories (themes). This review provided a comprehensive overview of the existing literature, shedding light on the complex interplay between reproductive health and environmental sustainability.