Community-based distribution of contraceptives: a guide for programme managers

Abstract

Community-based distribution (CBD) of contraceptives can play an important role in helping countries to achieve their family planning goals. It involves providing information and temporary contraceptive methods (usually the pill and barrier methods) in community settings, basing these services on the needs and resources of the community. CBD services are usually less costly than clinic-based services, easier for people to reach, and available in a widerrange of settings. In addition, because the community is involved in providing CBD services, those services are more likely to be accepted and used

The guidelines in this book, which are based on experience gained in successful CBD programmes around the world, are intended for people responsible for establishing or expanding CBD programmes. They explain how to develop a programme that is appropriate to the needs of the community, and how to ensure that it receives support from the public, as well as from the medical community. Successful delivery of CBD services is essentially linked to the education of potential users, and hence this book includes specific recommendations on training of CBD personnel as well as on service delivery