After it rained (think that monsoon type rain again) this morning, we went out into the community to a district health center to speak to women about family planning and the benefits they can reap if they consider birth control. There were close to 20 women in attendance ranging in age from 17 to about 35. They all had at least one child, many had 3 or more.
There are so many misconceptions the Ugandan women have about contraception methods as I mentioned before. Similarly to the other young adults we spoke with over the weekend, they think birth control leads to abdominal pain, cancer and infertility. Most time is spent educating them that that isn't the case. The remaining time is spent trying to encourage them to consider options to space out their children.
Two women committed to 3 year implants to prevent pregnancy. After those two, they must have given a few other the courage to consider their options. At least 4 other women got 3 or 5 year implants and a few got 3month Depo Provera injections. The doctor & family planning specialist we were with showed us how to do the implants and under supervision Kendal and I completed a few of them!
In the community, the clinic, and the hospital, everyone encourages us to participate in direct patient care. They look at us strangely when we say we just want to observe but gladly welcome our input and assistance when possible.
Until next time...
Hi! I love your blog!! I'm currently a 4th semester at AUC and I've been reading it since before I even came to the island.Its really motivating to see how far you've come especially on days when I just feel like giving up. Keep up the good! so proud of you!!
ReplyDeleteAlso I'm really interested in the program you're doing in Uganda. Where or how can I find out more about it?