Family planning in indigenous areas of Guatemala
Ippf/Whr News Service. International Planned Parenthood Federation. Western Hemisphere Region 4(5): 26-27
1976
PMID: 12308164 Document Number: 206721
As a result of a study conducted by the Family Planning Association in Guatemala, it was learned that a favorable climate exists for an integrated orientation program which includes family planning. Consequently, the Association developed a 5-year program of health education, family life education, social organization and advancement, training, and family planning. The program's objectives are: 1) to promote the well-being of the rural family, encouraging the exercise of the duty and the right of responsible and conscious procreation; 2) to continue to uphold the family in rural areas as the basis for society; and 3) to contribute to the reduction of health risks, induced abortion, infant mortality, malnutrition, poverty, and ignorance. There are program projects that focus on economic development, health education, family life, social organizations, and other aspects within the socioecnomic realms. Courses on family planning, responsible parenthood, and family life were also offered. Additionally, family planning services are provided on a voluntary basis under the medical supervision of the family orientation unit in the township of Tactic. A study conducted to evaluate the health, social, and economic situation in Tactic revealed: 82 persons stated that family planning was good, 54 individuals claimed to know how to prevent pregnancies, and 51 claimed ignorance of family planning. Additionally, a majority of the people interviewed reported a desire to have small families. Parents have expressed an interest in sex education, and 47 of those interviewed indicated that they would teach their children about birth control.