Counseling for Choice: Does a Consumer-Powered Approach to Counseling Lead to Better Contraceptive Outcomes?

Amanda Kalamar , Population Services International
Philip Mkandawire, Population Service International Malawi
Laura Glish, Population Services International

Background: Contraceptive discontinuation rates remain high, primarily due to side effects. Most existing training on counseling gives little guidance on how to discuss bleeding changes with clients. Counseling for Choice (C4C) aims to change that. Objective: The objective of the evaluation is to test the effect of the C4C approach on method satisfaction and continuation rates. Methods: A quasi-experimental matched case-control design evaluates the impact on contraceptive continuation and client satisfaction. Qualitative data collection is used to understand providers’ perceptions of the C4C approach. Results: There are three main outcome measures: 1) 6-month discontinuation rates (while in need); 2) satisfaction; and 3) barriers and facilitators to using the C4C approach Discussion: C4C has been designed to directly address the pervasiveness of contraceptive discontinuation. The results of this evaluation are intended to provide evidence as to whether taking this kind of client-centered approach better meets women’s needs.

See extended abstract

 Presented in Session 1. Fertility, Family Planning, Sexual Behavior, & Reproductive Health 1