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Dr. Jim Shelton's Pearls

"Pearl" for the week of March 12, 2007

What's New in the New Handbook?

Q:What is new and different about the new Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers compared to the old Essentials of Contraceptive Technology?

A:Much is the same, including the familiar organization of chapters by method, and the commitment to practical "essential" information. However, in addition to updated technical information on the 13 major family planning methods, you will find:


  • A new section with tools for providers such as the pregnancy "checklist," and new guidance on what to do if a client misses oral contraceptive pills.

  • The new contraceptive effectiveness chart on the back cover.

  • Brief looks at up-and-coming methods and others not as widely available.

  • New sections on related health needs such as STIs, and on clients with special needs such as youth.

  • More key programmatic points for family planning provision.


And, in addition, the book is expected to ship with an updated version of the methods wall chart, "Do you know your family planning choices?"



The "Pearls" offer answers to commonly asked questions about family planning. These "Pearls" are prepared by Dr. James D. Shelton, Senior Medical Scientist, Office of Population, United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

Disclaimer: The information provided on this web site is not official U.S. Government information and does not represent the views or positions of the U.S. Agency for International Development, the U.S. Government or The Johns Hopkins University.