National Family Planning Guidelines for service Providers 6th edition

Abstract

The 6th edition of the National Family Planning Guidelines for Service Providers therefore places more emphasis on improving access to quality FP services including expansion of method mix, ensuring there are no missed opportunities, reduction in unmet FP need and increasing the numbers of new users; thereby sustaining the gains made. It recognizes that reproductive and sexual health care, including FP information and services, is not only a key intervention for improving the health of women, men and children but also a human right. Everyone has the right to access, choice, and the benefits of scientific progress in the selection of FP methods. A rights-based approach to the provision of contraceptives assumes a holistic view of clients; which includes taking clients’ sexual and reproductive health care needs into account and considering all appropriate eligibility criteria in helping clients choose and safely use an FP method. In addition to updating the Medical Eligibility Criteria (MEC), the guidelines address several other issues in the appropriate provision of contraceptive methods. These include task shifting, new strategies to increase access (e.g. Community Based Family Planning, postpartum FP packages and comprehensive Post Abortion Care (PAC) services which includes FP), services for persons with special needs (e.g. PLwD. mobile populations, adolescents and youth), integration of FP with other RH services (including HIV and AIDS and screening for cancers of reproductive organs), new contraceptive choices and male engagement.