- Comfortable discussing human sexuality
- Unbiased attitudes toward
all contraceptive methods
- Technical knowledge and skills
|
|
Family planning counselors and service providers need all of
the qualities discussed in the previous slide. Several other
characteristics are also important.
Providers of services need to be comfortable when discussing
human sexuality and feelings. Too often, family planning providers
discuss contraception in a biological way without taking into
account issues of sexuality. Topics that may need to be discussed
in a nonjudgmental way include the number of partners a client
has, negotiating sex and condom use with a partner, how side
effects may affect sexual relations and other issues.
Providers need to have an unbiased attitude toward all contraceptive
methods. Good counselors will not impose their views on a client,
even if they favor or dislike a particular method.
Providers also need good technical knowledge and a willingness
to change their viewpoints as more scientific information becomes
available. For example, scientific studies have shown that the
intrauterine device (IUD) can be used safely and effectively
for at least 10 years. New data may affect how a provider counsels
a woman about contraceptive options.
|
