Oxytocin

http://www.rhsupplies.org/fileadmin/user_upload/RHSC_tech_briefs_PDFs/rhsc-brief-oxytocin_A4.pd

Misoprostol for maternal health

http://www.rhsupplies.org/fileadmin/user_upload/RHSC_tech_briefs_PDFs/rhsc-brief-misoprostol_A4.pd

Technical Reference Team Commodity: Misoprostol

http://www.rhsupplies.org/fileadmin/user_upload/CoLSC/Meeting_Documents/Dakar_2-5_July_2013/second_part/Global_conveners_brief_Misoprostol_Final.pd

Using marketing science to understand contraceptive demand in high‐fertility Niger

Global initiatives aim to add 120 million new family planning (FP) users by 2020; however supply‐side interventions may be reaching the limits of their effectiveness in some settings. Our case study in Niger used demand analysis techniques from marketing science. We performed a representative survey (N = 2,004) on women's FP knowledge, attitudes, needs, and behaviors, then used latent class analysis to produce a segmentation of women based on their responses. We found that Nigerien women's demand for modern FP methods was low, with majorities aware of modern methods but much smaller proportions considering use, trying modern methods, or using one consistently. We identified five subgroups of women with distinct, internally coherent profiles regarding FP needs, attitudes, and usage patterns, who faced different barriers to adopting or using modern FP. Serving subgroups of women based on needs, values, and underlying beliefs may help more effectively drive a shift in FP behavior

Evaluation of service quality in family planning clinics in Lusaka, Zambia

OBJECTIVE: To determine the quality of contraceptive services in family planning clinics in Lusaka, Zambia using a standardized approach. STUDY DESIGN: We utilized the Quick Investigation of Quality, a cross-sectional survey tool consisting of a facility assessment, client-provider observation, and client exit interview, in public-sector family planning clinics. Data were collected on availability of seven contraceptive methods, information given to clients, interpersonal relations between providers and clients, providers’ technical competence, and mechanisms for continuity and follow-up. RESULTS: Data were collected from five client-provider observations and client exit interviews in each of six public-sector family planning clinics. All clinics had at least two contraceptive methods continuously available for the preceding six months. Most providers asked clients about concerns with their contraceptive method (80%) and told clients when to return to the clinic (87%). Most clients reported that the provider advised what to do if a problem develops (93%); described possible side effects (89%); explained how to use the method effectively (85%); and told them when to come for follow-up (83%). Clients were satisfied with services received (93%). CONCLUSION(S): This application of the Quick Investigation of Quality showed that the participating family planning clinics in Lusaka, Zambia were prepared to offer high quality services with the available commodities, and clients were satisfied with the received services. Despite the subjective client satisfaction, quality improvement efforts are needed to increase contraceptive availability. IMPLICATIONS: Although clients perceived the quality of care received to be high, family planning service quality could be improved to continuously offer the full spectrum of contraceptive options. The Quick Investigation of Quality was easily implemented in Lusaka, Zambia, and this simple approach could be utilized in a variety of settings as a modality for quality improvement