The ICPD Program of Action called upon organizations which have historically provided family planning and other reproductive health services to women, to constructively involve men in their programs, for the benefit of both women and men. Serving male clients, whether alone or in couples, necessitates not only attention to the specific needs of men but also vigilance in protecting the interests of women. These needs include rights to confidentiality, privacy and respect for autonomy. Gender-based power imbalances may lead providers to direct attention, instruction and deference to the male partner in a couple, reinforcing his authority. Based on research and lessons learned from interventions involving men in family planning, HIV/AIDS, post-abortion care and safe motherhood programs, this paper will address benefits, constraints and specific considerations to take into account when the client is a male.
Learning Objectives: 1) To identify the principles of good client-provider interaction that are particularly important in serving male clients and couples. 2) To cite evidence from case studies of both unintended negative consequences of involving men in RH, and of positive outcomes of sound communication strategies.
Keywords: Evidence Based Practice, Reproductive Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.