I Practice What I Preach

I have always believed in the words that ‘Family planning is a shared responsibility’. My knowledge deepened further when PSI India team supported us through training on family planning. During training sessions, the stark reality of low male participation came up again and again. That’s when I decided—if I want change, I must start from my own home.”

Lila, seeing minimal response from men despite her outreach, decided to lead by example. With quiet courage, she initiated an honest conversation with her husband about the benefits of NSV, explaining the procedure and its safety. Though unsure initially, he listened, asked questions, and gradually gained trust in her guidance. Eventually, he agreed.

Lila shared- “I arranged his consultation and visit at the district hospital. With professional’s guidance, he opted for NSV. Just as I had reassured him, he resumed his daily activities within days.”

His smooth experience became a powerful example and proof that Lila’s counselling was grounded in real knowledge and real results. With this confidence, Lila intensified her male counselling efforts. She encouraged her husband to speak to other men, sharing his firsthand experience. This shifted attitudes instantly. Men who were previously resistant began listening more openly, and two community members even went on to adopt NSV.

Today, Lila’s experience stands as a model of personal and professional dedication. With PSI India’s ongoing support, frontline workers like Lila are promoting informed choice and fostering an environment where family planning truly becomes a shared responsibility.

Under the Rapid Scale Initiative, PSI India supports government frontline workers through structured trainings on family planning counselling and by strengthening their ability to inform communities about the advantages of all modern family planning methods, including NSV. These efforts equip ASHAs not only with technical knowledge but also with the confidence to counsel families more effectively and address barriers around male participation.