Answer Sheet for Problem-Solving Cases


 

Case 1

Carmen

Case 2

Maria

Case 3

Gloria

Case 4

Maggie

Case 5

Cristina

Case 6

Pat

1.  What is the length of her menstrual cycle?

30 days

28 days

We don’t know

Possibly within 26 to 32-day range

Probably within 26 to 32-day range

Unknown

2.  Can she use the Standard Days Method?

Yes

Yes

Not at this time

Yes

Yes

Question not  applicable to case

3.  If the method were suitable for her, when could she start using it?

Immediately

Immediately

Not yet

Immediately

Wait until her next period starts

Question not  applicable to case

4.  What, if any, are recommendations that you would make to her?

Standard Advice.

· Monitor your cycle length over time. Make sure knows how to check for short or long cycles.

· Confirm that both partners can avoid unprotected sex on her fertile days.

·  Discuss with partner about method and agree in advance how to handle her fertile days.

·  If you already had sex during this cycle you may already be pregnant. Emphasize explanation on checking for short or long cycles.

·  Wait for her periods to resume and to have a cycle within the 32 to 26-day range.

·  Use another method of family planning in the meantime

 

·  Place ring on bead corresponding to today’s date and keep track of current cycle length.

·  Emphasize she should return to clinic if her current cycle is too short or too long.

·  Wait until bleeding related to EC has stopped. Begin SDM when regular period starts.

·  Talk to partner about method and agree in advance how to handle her fertile days.

·  Return to clinic if current next cycle is too short or too long

·  This is a good tool to help you understand how your cycle works, keep track of when you get your periods and anticipate them.

·  Move ring each day and count # of days between periods to know cycle length.

Case Studies