[Promoting sexual and reproductive health as part of an educational program among Romani women]

In 2012, the "Centre d'Accueil, de Soins et d'Orientation" run by Médecins du Monde in Bordeaux (France) developed an educational program aimed at promoting sexual and reproductive health among Romani women from Bulgaria and Romania. A preliminary study was conducted using a qualitative methodology involving focus groups and individual interviews. A close relationship was found between the participants' cultural beliefs about sexual and reproductive health and their precarious living conditions. An analytical framework focusing on representations of motherhood and birth control highlighted the resources and constraints shaping their attitudes and the challenges they face. The results provide support for a recent attempt to promote health among Romani women living in the area. More specifically, an educational approach designed to provide support and assistance was recently developed to help women find solutions tailored to their needs and designed to increase their decision-making abilities. The program also involves an advocacy approach. The implementation of the project is further supported by an assessment process, which will be followed by a summative evaluation of the resulting effects and an assessment of the impact of the program on the perception of reproductive health among the local Romani population.