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This family planning clinic-based intervention was originally developed for
teens less than 18 years of age. It is based on the premise that regular
contraceptive use by teens can be increased by offering information, social
support, and counseling, in addition to health and medical services.
Accordingly, the program aims to provide family planning services in a manner
that will increase teens' sense of comfort, increase their self-confidence, and
reduce any fears that may discourage regular and effective contraception. A key
component of the intervention is the Personal Information Form, a one-page
questionnaire designed to aid staff in understanding teens' concerns, providing
counsel and identifying patients who may be at greatest risk for early
pregnancy. To ease teens' anxiety, the first appointment is divided into two
visits, with education and counseling provided in the first session and the
medical examination (and contraceptive prescription) deferred until the second.
The intervention also includes: (1) education in a one-on-one rather than a
group setting; (2) use of visual aids; (3) a follow-up visit scheduled six
weeks after the initial appointment; and (4) encouragement of participation by
family members, partners, and friends, while respecting the patient's right to
confidential services. A field study was conducted with 1,261 teens attending
six family planning clinics. Compared to their peers receiving standard
services, program participants showed significantly greater gains in knowledge,
contraceptive usage and significantly fewer pregnancies at the 6- and 12-month
follow-up assessments.
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