GLAD/CODIE's Family Planning Program believes that individuals, when given the knowledge and the skills, will make responsible decisions regarding their sexual behavior and reproductive health. Unfortunately, one of the most crucial barriers to a deaf person's understanding of sexuality is their inability to obtain accurate information as a result of the communication difficulties posed by deafness.

To ensure that the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community is equipped with knowledge and skills to make responsible decisions, GLAD/CODIE established the Family Planning Program as an education and prevention program to disseminate accurate sexuality and reproductive information.

Through a wide range of formats, the programs provides sexuality and reproductive health information including sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)/HIV. Responsible sexual behavior, abstinence, decision making and refusal skills are stressed to help enable deaf youth and adults to make wise choices.

The Family Planning Program also provides information about birth control methods and condom use to increase knowledge while decreasing unintended pregnancies. The program works closely with other family planning programs through networking and referrals to ensure the needs of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community are met.

All services are provided by deaf health educators in sign language or orally depending on the needs of the deaf individual. By being "deaf friendly," the program closes the information gap and assures equal access to quality services.

Services Provided:

• "Understanding Birth Control Methods & Sexually Transmitted Diseases" Workshop

Consists of five lessons discussing sexual reproductive anatomy, prevention of unwanted pregnancy, birth control methods and condoms, sexually, transmitted diseases/HIV, abstinence, refusal skills and recognizing risky behaviors for teens (14-18) and adults (18-up). Interactive activities are highlighted such as role plays, demonstrations and games.

• "For Males Only" Group Discussions

Facilitated by a deaf adult male, teens and adults explore male sexuality on several levels including pregnancy prevention, sexual identity, responsible behaviors, and identifying strategies that work. Participants on this program have successfully completed the "Understanding Birth Control Methods & Sexually Transmitted Diseases" workshop.

• In-Service Training

Health care providers are culturally "sensitized" to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community through an educational session which discusses cultural differences, communication tips and techniques and how to use a sign language interpreter. Interactive activities allow health care providers to experience deaf culture first hand from the Deaf person's point of view.

• Referrals

Network established with other "deaf friendly" family planning clinics for providing immediate and effective referrals.

• Parent Information session & Education Series

Information Sessions permit parents to become acquainted with the "Understanding Birth Control Methods & Sexually Transmitted Diseases" lessons that are taught to their teens. The Education Series educates parents about techniques for communicating with their teens regarding sexually issues. Information about puberty, STDs, birth control methods, and a basic sign language lesson are presented. Parent and school support are highly encouraged to promote positive role models and unity.