Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

Distribute the participant document Methods of Contraception: Combined Oral
Contraceptives (COCs) - Fact Sheets and pair participants. Ask them to simulate a
discussion between a mediator and a woman in the community, the mediator having the
role of communicating to the woman basic information about the pill based on the Fact
Sheet. After two minutes, ask them to switch roles.
Explain that:
• Pills may have some side effects that women should be made aware of. Ask
participants to name possible side effects of the pill. Correct any misinformation,
and be sure the points in their fact sheet/cue card are covered.
• These minor side effects are generally not signs or symptoms of serious illness
and they usually stop after the body becomes accustomed to the pill, which takes
about 2-3 months. Some women never experience these side effects.
• If minor side effects continue beyond 2-3 months and/or are intolerable, the
woman should consider using another method. She should visit the doctor who
prescribed her the pill or another family planning provider.
Explain that while the pills are an extremely effective method of family planning, there
are some situations or conditions in which women should not use the pill. Emphasize that
it is recommended for women to ask advice from a trained health provider (such as a
Family Doctor) if they are interest in using COCs.
2. Progestagen-only pills (POP) or mini-pills (10 minutes)
Briefly describe the method, emphasizing the differences between this method and
COCs. Use the trainer document Progestagen-Only Pill for your presentation.
[Note: A pre-prepared flipchart may be used to explain the method].
Explain that POPs are generally provided to breastfeeding women. Used correctly, they
are as effective as COCs in non-breastfeeding women. However, the effectiveness of
POPs is dependent upon the woman taking the pill at the same time every day. It is
important for the woman to understand that missing even one pill can render the method
ineffective for that cycle of pills.
3. Injectable Contraceptives (15 minutes)
Explain what injectables contraceptives are and that you will present the injectable
contraceptive available in Romania, which is known as Depo-Provera. Distribute a few
samples of Depo-Provera and allow participants 1-2 minutes to examine them.
Explain that:
• Depo-Provera is a very effective and safe injectable contraceptive for women.
• It works for a three-month period.
• It may have some minor effects and if those appear, they may last as long as 6-8
months after the woman’s last injection.
49
RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 4: FP Methods