Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

Trainer document
TRADITIONAL CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS
Coitus Interruptus or Withdrawal Method in which the man interrupts intercourse by
pulling out or withdrawing his penis from his partner’s vagina before he ejaculates so that
semen is not deposited inside her body. The effectiveness of this method depends on the
man’s willingness and ability to withdraw before ejaculation.
Vaginal (post coital) douching consists of placing water into the vagina (with a vaginal
irrigator or douche) immediately after intercourse in order to eliminate the sperm from
the vagina. Effectiveness of the method is very low because the sperm pass into the
uterus (through the cervical opening) in a very short time (approximately 30-60 seconds).
Using “sperm-killer” substances is an old method, used without any scientific basis.
People used different common substances (like salt, lemon juice, vinegar) in order to kill
the sperm and avoid pregnancy. Some of these substances work, destroying the sperm,
but they also destroy the human tissues, especially the woman’s vaginal and cervical
lining.
Only modern, adapted products (spermicides) are recommended for this purpose.
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 4: FP Methods