PATH has developed this comprehensive suite of scientific communications materials to support evidence-based introduction and scale-up of DMPA-SC and self-injection (SI).

This lesson is intended for health care providers learning to counsel family planning clients about DMPA-SC and self-injection in the context of informed choice. Developed by the Injectables Access Collaborative, the lesson incorporates key content from the more in-depth DMPA-SC self-injection empathy-based counseling developed by the PSI Delivering Innovation in Self-Care (DISC) project. The lesson can be incorporated into a comprehensive training on DMPA-SC or adapted as a refresher training for experienced providers.

Please contact FPoptions@path.org with questions or comments.

Developed by the PSI Delivering Innovation in Self-Care (DISC) project, this training package is intended to guide ministries of health, family planning/reproductive health projects, and any implementing organization that is interested in integrating an empathy-based approach to improve health providers’ quality of care.

The training content addresses risks of preventable client “drop-off” during the initiation stage of women’s self-injection journey by using empathetic counseling to instill client confidence and address common concerns such as fear of the needle. In addition to supporting providers’ service delivery, the training modules can support improved health system functioning by putting the client’s experience front and center and by bringing more structure and guidance to the supportive supervision process, enabling providers to build their competencies after the training sessions.

For more information on integrating this training curriculum in your family planning program, please contact the PSI DISC project at disc.info@psi.org.

The Training Resource Package (TRP) for Family Planning’s Progestin-Only Injectable module includes sessions V and VI which are focused on DMPA-SC and self-injection, as well as a number of related handouts and resources. Developed in partnership with the Access Collaborative, these materials are intended for training health care providers who offer progestin-only injectable contraception (“injectables”) in the public or private sector.

The TRP website features training information and materials for a wide range of family planning methods. This includes curriculum components and tools for trainers to design, implement, and evaluate family planning and reproductive health training.

DMPA-SC is a three-month injectable contraceptive that is easy to use and uniquely suited for self-injection. Demonstration and practice injections are a key part of training programs for both health workers and self-injection clients. Based on lessons learned in five countries, this memo summarizes PATH’s recommendations regarding devices for injection demonstration and practice, injection practice models, and waste disposal.

This instruction sheet is intended for health care providers who are learning to administer DMPA-SC.

The DMPA/NET-EN checklist consists of questions designed to identify medical conditions that would prevent safe DMPA/NET-EN use or require further screening and assess whether a client might be pregnant. It also provides guidance and directions based on clients’ responses.

PATH developed this fact sheet in response to questions about the recommended time frame or “window” for reinjection of subcutaneous DMPA (DMPA-SC). It summarizes the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for reinjection timing. The brief also explains why clients living with HIV, including those using antiretroviral therapies, can use DMPA on the same schedule as any other client.

This 32-page publication outlines the GATHER model of family planning counseling, which has been successfully used for nearly two decades and is based on the elements described including tips, illustrations, techniques, technical information, and charts.

Counseling for Choice (C4C) is an evidence-based approach to contraceptive counseling that supports clients to decide which method is right for them. By addressing many of the root causes of unmet need for contraception and discontinuation, C4C aims to change how providers and clients participate in voluntary family planning counseling discussions. The approach comprises a thorough training in C4C techniques and use of the Choice Book for Providers, a job aid and visual tool providers can use with clients during counseling sessions.