Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

‣ We speak often of the lack of motivation of women to use family planning, beside
the lack of information. Could we have a positive or a negative influence on their
motivation? In what sense?
Responses will vary according to the experiences and perceptions of the group.
‣ The obstacles in the story, obstacles encountered in our communities: how can one
categorize them?
Individual (personal) factors:
• Lack of information
• Denying the risks
• Fear (partner, community, relatives)
• Embarrassment
• Lack of communication and negotiation skills with the partner
External factors:
• Limited access to services
• Inappropriate attitude of service providers
• Unavailability of a range of contraceptive methods
Ask participants:
‣ Are there any other factors which influence women to use or not contraceptive
methods?
Most often the lack of correct information and preconceptions are the stronger barriers to
family planning.
Suggest that during this workshop participants will learn correct information about the
contraceptive methods, which will help them to dispel the rumors and misconception
encountered into communities.
Summarize (5 minutes)
Ask the group:
‣ What should be your role in promoting RH and FP? What are the key-messages to
be transmitted to the population?
• There are a range of services available free-of-charge to all women and men
• Family planning is one of the most important measures that a nation or a couple can
practice to reduce the mortality of mothers’ and their infants.
• The prevention of unwanted pregnancies and spacing births by at least two years has
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 2: Basic Principles of RH & FP