HIV - STDs. Making integration work
EntreNous 1997(36-37): 15
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 1014-8485 PMID: 12222288 Document Number: 274425
The Bulgarian Family Planning and Sexual Health Association (BFPA) has adopted a holistic approach to promoting reproductive health, with its clinics combining obstetrics/gynecological (OB/GYN) consultations with sexually transmitted disease (STD) services and family therapy. Service statistics indicate that this approach has been welcomed by women. In the Sofia clinic, the number of total visits increased from 2892 in 1995 to 5880 in 1996, while the number of contraceptive consultations increased from 1718 in 1995 to 4068 in 1996. The number of clients using OB/GYN services, STD services, sexual counseling, and psychiatric counseling also increased. Countrywide, there were 6921 visits overall in 1996. In addition to integrating STD prevention into other reproductive health activities, for the past 3 years, the BFPA has arranged sex education sessions in schools for youth. STD and AIDS information is a major aspect of the information provided through brochures, leaflets, and other forms of communication. BFPA's promotions in the printed media and upon radio and television also give STD prevention priority attention.