This Short Course for IntraUterine Devices (IUDs) is designed for healthcare providers who are often tasked with providing Family Planning (FP) services—primarily nurses, midwives, clinical associates as well as medical officers—and assume trainees will have at minimum a nurse’s level of clinical training.
Course Description
By the end of the training, trainees should be able to:
1. List the key messages about IUDs
2. Describe the characteristics of IUDs in a manner that clients can understand, including:
- What IUDs are and how they work (mechanism of action);
- Effectiveness;
- Side effects;
- Non-contraceptive health benefits;
- Other characteristics (STI/HIV protection, ease of use, return to fertility), and;
- Possible health risks (complications).
3. Demonstrate the ability to:
- Screen clients for medical eligibility for IUD use;
- Explain to clients how IUDs are inserted and removed;
- Explain when to return to the clinic;
- Address common concerns, misconceptions, myths, and;
- Conduct follow-up for IUD clients in a way that enhances continuing safety, satisfaction, and acceptance.
4. Describe when to initiate the use of IUDs (postpartum, switching from another method).
5. Explain how to manage side effects.
6. Identify conditions that require switching to another method.
7. Identify clients in need of referral for IUD-related complications.
Accreditation
Training content was developed based on the National Department of Health and WHO Family Planning Training Package. It is a critical component of healthcare workers' Continuous Professional Development.
Certification
Accredited according to the HPCSA’s Medical and Dental Board Guidelines for Healthcare Professions for Clinical CPD Points. The certificate will be available within 2 - 3 working days once the course is successfully completed.
Course Design
The course is a self-paced eLearning facilitated by experts in the field. This interactive training program is composed of video lectures, demonstrations, MCQ assessments, case studies and group work.
Course content
The following topics are covered under this program:
- Characteristics and effectiveness of IUDs
- Indications and contraindications
- Counselling, providing, monitoring and response to side effects
- Safe loading of copper IUD
- IUD Insertion and removal
- Inserting an IUD postpartum
- Infection Control & Prevention
Assessment
Participants will be assessed on ongoing exercises, pre and post-tests and case studies.
Target Audience
All healthcare practitioners: Nurses, Midwives, Clinical associates, and Medical officers.
Duration
Self-paced. Takes up to 4 weeks to complete.