Advocacy Leads to Initiation of Sterilization Services at Urban Community Health Centres

PSI India presented an analysis showing the need for comprehensive services including sterilization at UCHCs. Their advocacy helped us strengthen awareness, availability, and accessibility of family planning services.”

A series of discussions were held between the Directorate of Family Planning, National Health Mission officials, and the PSI India team. It was decided that challenges would be addressed in a phased manner: first, by increasing community awareness, and second, by equipping UCHCs to provide sterilization services.

As the first step, community sensitization programs were conducted through outreach camps, engaging local leaders and health officials to spread awareness about sterilization methods and available services. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) were trained and supported in demand generation and client mobilization, ensuring informed decision-making among eligible couples.

“The outreach program was implemented under focused Fixed Day Static services on 16 January, 22 January, 6 February, and 22 February 2024. The outcome of these outreach camps was remarkable—mobilizing 35 female sterilization cases and one No-Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV),” shares Monalisa Nayak.

Infrastructure optimization was another key step. Although UCHCs had designated spaces for sterilization, they lacked essential equipment. To address this, Dr. Murali Dhar Padhi, Additional Director, Family Welfare and Maternal Health, provided personal laparoscopic equipment to support the UCHCs until they could be fully equipped.

“Refresher trainings were organized for the clinical staff of UCHCs. The capacity building of UCHC staff and medical officers enabled them to continue providing services without interruption. We consistently emphasized comprehensive pre- and post-operative counseling along with regular follow-ups. To assess progress and address concerns, regular meetings were held at both UCHC and district levels. This approach has helped Bhubaneswar move closer to its goal of comprehensive family planning,” adds Monalisa Nayak.

Bhubaneswar’s initiative exemplifies how collaborative efforts between the public health system and technical support partners can drive sustainable change, making comprehensive family planning services more accessible, especially for those who need them most.

PSI India conducted structured coaching, data-based analysis, and continuous advocacy to ‘Awareness, Availability, and Accessibility’ of family planning services in Bhubaneswar.