Practical training of health care providers in insertion of contraceptive implants: findings from two Brazilian centres.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Lack of information and myths or inadequate training of health care providers in the guidance and management of contraceptives could negatively affect choice and eventually continuation rates. Our objectives were to evaluate the impact of clinical and theoretical training of health care professionals on insertion and removal of etonogestrel (ENG)-implant regarding this contraceptive, including pre- and post-training knowledge about insertion and removal techniques, clinical characteristics, side effects and outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in which a questionnaire was sent to health care providers after they received clinical training in the management of ENG-implant. RESULTS: After training, 78.2% of the 139 participants initiated to offer and inserted up to 5 implants/month and 17.6% between 6 to 10/month. None of the interviewees reported having difficulty with insertions after training, and 87.9% reported feeling very confident for removal. CONCLUSION: Theoretical and practical training appeared important to prepare health care professionals, clarify doubts and promote higher rates of use of contraceptive implants in Brazil, contributing to reduce the rates of unintended pregnancies.