Open forum on Postpartum Contraceptive methods, 30th September and 16th October, 2024

Two open forums on ‘Postpartum contraceptive methods’ were organised by ARTH on the occasion of World Contraception Day on 30th September 2024 and 16th October 2024 at ARTH Training Center, Iswal and ARTH Health Center, Suawaton Ka Guda. The focus of the programme was aimed at understanding the perspective of community women and key health representatives, while raising awareness on various contraceptive options. 

The session was attended by 40 participants in Iswal and 50 particpants in Suawaton Ka Guda from diverse backgrounds, including local health workers such as Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Anganwadi workers, as well as community leaders, including some WardpPanch, a Sarpanch and Sathins (volunteers in Rajasthan focused on women’s empowerment and awareness). Attendees also included a traditional birth attendant, women who had delivered recently (within the past year), recently married women, adolescent girls, senior women, and Community Health Entrepreneurs. 

During the discussion, participants shared personal examples highlighting various facets of contraceptive use, covering not only basic knowledge and availability but also broader issues surrounding choice, cost, and decision-making capacity. The conversation included the range of contraception options available in their communities and explored experiences with these choices, including sterilisation and Copper-T. However, challenges faced after adoption of Copper-T were also raised. This part of the discussion emphasised how access to information and resources can vary greatly, often influenced by socioeconomic factors and cultural norms. Decision-making around contraception often proves difficult, especially within couples, where communication is hindered by social stigma and power dynamics. This challenge is compounded for women who wish to use contraception discreetly, sometimes even without their partner’s knowledge, due to societal pressure, particularly towards post- partum women. These insights reveal a nuanced understanding of contraception in the community, highlighting both practical and social obstacles that impact women’s reproductive choices.

The presence of a visiting gynaecologist at the ARTH Health Center programme provided valuable support to the participants, fostering a comfortable environment where they could openly share their questions and concerns. Her interaction with the participants helped address specific questions about contraceptive methods. The session concluded with a question and answer session, allowing participants to clarify their doubts and gain a clearer understanding of the contraceptive options available to them. We hope that these sessions had a positive impact on the women who attended and they are now better equipped to make informed choices for themselves.