Success Stories

Transforming Lives through the IntegratE Project: Aisha’s Journey to Family Planning

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By Bashir Adamu Bashir, Jane Egbuchiem

Aisha Abubakar, a 25-year-old mother of five, resides with her family in Tabra Tsahuyam, a rural community in Biu LGA, Borno State. Aisha, of Kanuri descent, is married to a Tera man who works as a labourer at the Biu Market. Her father, a traditional healer, offers traditional and spiritual medicine as well as prayer services to the community. Life in this community is marked by the challenges of limited resources and access to essential health services.

During an encounter with the IntegratE Project, through the State Technical Adviser (STA), Bashir Adamu Bashir, Aisha shared her personal experience: “Kafin na hadu da yar IntegratE, ban taba amfani da ko wane kayan tazara na zamani ba,” meaning, “Before I met IntegratE, I had never used any modern family planning (FP) method.“

She explained that she had previously relied on traditional methods to space her pregnancies, including local herbs, wool, prayers, and charms tied to her arm. However, these methods proved ineffective, and she faced the physical and emotional toll of having unspaced pregnancies.

A turning point came when Aisha engaged with the Interpersonal Communication Agents (IPCAs) trained under the IntegratE Project. The IPCAs conducted interactive sessions with her, sensitising her on the health and socio-economic benefits of modern FP methods. Recognising how these methods could positively impact her and her family, Aisha decided to take a proactive step. She was referred to SA Aliyu, a Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendor (PPMV) and a trained family planning provider under the IntegratE Project, conveniently located less than 25 metres from her home. There, she received counselling and opted for oral contraceptive pills.

Aisha proudly shared her progress: “Tunda na fara amfani da kwayan ban samu ciki ba, kuma wanna shine wata na na uku da dafa amfani dashi,” meaning, “Since I started using oral pills, I have not conceived, and this is my third month on them.”

Reflecting on her journey, Aisha shared the challenges she previously faced with closely spaced children. The strain of raising multiple young children took a toll on her health, limited her ability to support the household income, and placed significant financial pressure on her family. However, with the support of the IntegratE Project, Aisha feels empowered to make informed decisions about her reproductive health and her children’s well-being. By accessing healthcare services at health facilities and practising exclusive breastfeeding, she is now better equipped to care for her family and contribute to their overall well-being. Aisha’s story highlights the life-changing impact of the IntegratE Project. Through innovative approaches like IPCA engagement and partnerships with PPMVs, the project is bridging gaps in healthcare access, empowering women in rural communities, and fostering healthier families.

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