Women in Vulnerable Situations Access Gynecological Care Services at George Duez Hospital for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer and Unwanted Pregnancies in the Municipality of Sucre (Bolivia)

IPTK - Sucre

Justification

The Georges Duez Hospital of IPTK records a high demand from women seeking preventive check-ups in the field of Gynecology. Despite limitations in medical equipment and supplies for this specialty, the hospital performs Pap smear tests and, in some cases, biopsies. In addition, contraceptive implants are provided in order to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

However, the hospital does not have forceps for the removal of copper IUDs, nor colposcopy equipment. Colposcopy is a procedure that allows an in-depth examination of the vagina, vulva, and cervix through a device called a colposcope, facilitating the identification of lesions that are not visible to the naked eye and enabling biopsies to be performed in suspicious areas.

The proposal seeks to guarantee access for low-income women by strengthening preventive gynecological services. Priority is given to Pap smear testing, the insertion and removal of contraceptive implants, and the purchase of colposcopy equipment. Medical campaigns and health and hygiene awareness sessions will also be carried out.

Location

Sucre (Bolivia)

Local Partner

Instituto Politecnico Tomas Katari (IPTK)

Objectives

General Objective: To contribute to reducing mortality among vulnerable women in the municipality of Sucre.

Specific Objective: To strengthen gynecological medical care for low-income women, young women, and adolescent girls at Georges Duez Hospital (HGD), as well as preventive information on healthy habits related to health care and hygiene.

Target Population

(100 women).

Project Duration

Budget

Funding

Local Partner and Oñati City Council (€14,925)

Activities:

  • R1. Strengthened Gynecological Care for Women, Young Women, and Adolescent Girls at Georges Duez Hospital

    A1.1. Purchase and installation of a colposcopy unit at HGD facilities.

    A1.2. Workshops on the use and maintenance of the colposcopy equipment and contraceptive implants (IUDs and Mini T devices) for specialized gynecology medical staff (3 women and 2 men).

    A1.3. Gynecological care campaign aimed at 100 low-income women, young women, and adolescent girls, including Pap smear tests and contraceptive information, with the possibility of implant insertion based on personalized assessment.

    R2. Low-Income Women, Young Women, and Adolescent Girls Informed About Healthy Habits for Gynecological Health and Hygiene

    A2.1. Development and dissemination of communication materials to inform women, young women, and adolescent girls in Sucre about the prevention of unwanted pregnancies, healthcare, and healthy gynecological hygiene habits. Based on IPTK’s previous experience with similar campaigns, it is estimated that approximately 500 people will be reached, of whom around 100 will interact through IPTK’s social media platforms (Facebook and Instagram).