Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

• Ask themselves questions
• Consider the alternatives
‣ What is the importance of the step Information on the step Reflection?
Information provided must:
• Be relevant to the women’s interests and needs
• Be complete, precise, and clear; and be understood by the women
‣ What can/should a mediator do to facilitate the decision-making process for women?
• Imagine the needs/interests of women in our communities based on our experience in
working with them
• Help women express their needs, concerns and questions, as well as their reactions to what
we tell them; and listen carefully
• Adapt information to the needs/interests of individuals; encourage their questions and
reactions (in order to better understand, and respond to, their concerns and needs)
• Give women time to reflect on the information before making a decision
‣ Do we usually respect the decision-making process when we try to help women solve their
health needs and concerns?
No. Often we give information and expect women to decide immediately what they wish to do (as
expressed in 'you should . . . , you ought to . . .' etc)
‣ What are the consequences of such rushed/forced decisions?
Either the woman doesn't act at all or she makes a decision without adequate thought and without
conviction. Often, the woman does not follow through with/implement such decisions. Sometime
the woman carries out her decision but does not accept responsibility for any problems associated
with the decision and may even blame the mediator for any negative consequences of the decision.
‣ What should be the role of the mediator in communicating with women in the context of this
process of decision-making?
• Give complete, precise, objective and clear information
• Ask questions to help women to reflect on the information and on their choices
• Follow-up with women to reduce the risk of problems once the decision is put into action
Explain that sometimes a woman presents herself as having a problem (for example an unwanted
pregnancy, indecision about whether or not to use contraception, a relationship problem etc). In
such cases, it may be difficult to know how to help her to resolve the problem in a way that is best
for her. A simple problem-solving model is a useful tool to guide the mediator in helping the
woman.
Post the flip chart Problem-solving Process and review it with the group.
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 13: BCC