Effects of a short training workshop on the insertion/removal of intrauterine devices and contraceptive implants by general practice residents and their supervisors in France

Abstract

ObjectivesThe skill of general practitioners (GPs) in performing the insertion/removal of intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants is one of the factors that determines patient's access to these contraceptive devices. In France, GP residents have few opportunities to perform these procedures during their internships. This study aimed to measure the effects of a single short training workshop on the number of residents and supervisors offering these procedures. Study designEach participant attended a unique 2-hour session. After a brief didactic review and video presentations, participants received hands-on training in technical procedures (insertion/removal of IUDs and contraceptive implants) using procedural simulators. The evaluation measured the number of GPs offering these procedures before, 1 month after, and 3 months after the workshops. ResultsFourteen sessions were organized from February 2017 to June 2022. Among the 387 residents and 123 supervisors invited, 143 (37.0%) and 56 (45.5%), respectively, participated in this workshop. Of 199 participants, 66.3% completed all questionnaires. There was a significant increase in the number of GPs inserting IUDs by direct method 3 months after training (20.5% vs 9.0%, p = 0.005). GPs providing information to patients about contraceptive implants were significantly higher at 1 month (80.6% vs 64.8%, p = 0.001) but this increase was no longer significant at 3 months (75.0%, p = 0.07). Residents changed their practices more than their supervisors, and women more than men. ConclusionsA short training workshop increased the number of GPs inserting IUDs, influenced by the gender and the number of years practicing. ImplicationsA single workshop had positive effects on IUD insertion and patient education about contraceptive implants. Repeating several times this training could be an option in the initial and ongoing training of general practitioners. Work on the general practitioners' own feeling of legitimacy in their practice context could also increase the effectiveness of these workshops and the practical implementation of the procedures taught.