Islam and Family Planning: A Somali Family Planning Case Study

Since September 11, 2001, US policies toward Muslim communities have often been strained. Even before this date, few US-based programs focused specifically on Muslim communities and family planning. In 2004, Minnesota International Health Volunteers (MIHV), launched an evidence-based Somali Family Planning/Child Spacing Program, an integrated, culturally appropriate program which works with both Somali community members and health providers. While MIHV's Somali work is based in Minnesota, which has the largest concentration of Somalis in the United States, the organization has received over three dozen requests nationally from states with large Somali populations.

The Somali Family Planning/Child Spacing Program initially conducted qualitative and quantitative research to ascertain barriers to family planning and to plan interventions. Based on this information, program staff developed innovative information, education, and communication materials in the Somali language including a health calendar with proverbs, language specific cable TV programs, and a reproductive health booklet. Staff also worked with health providers by providing in-service trainings, an annual conference series, and cultural competence sessions.

MIHV works closely with religious leaders (Imams), community leaders, and with Somali men to ensure community acceptance. In addition, a unique aspect of the program is its use of Somali community health workers. All program areas include a strong monitoring and evaluation component. MIHV's innovative work has generated numerous religious, political, and policy lessons, as well as best practices that can be widely shared with other Muslim communities and reproductive health providers, both domestically and internationally.