The HRP learning programme, developed under the UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction and delivered through the WHO Academy, is designed to help health workers provide abortion care that is safe, respectful, and of high quality. It brings together key elements of comprehensive abortion care into a structured four-part learning pathway.
Abortion is a common medical procedure and is very safe when carried out using recommended methods appropriate to pregnancy duration and performed by trained health professionals. However, despite this, around 45% of abortions globally are still considered unsafe, highlighting the need for better training and standardized care.
The programme is organized into four interconnected courses covering medical abortion, surgical abortion, post-abortion care, and the integration of human rights into abortion care. The courses are interactive and structured into modules with short assessments, allowing learners to apply clinical decision-making skills that reflect real-life situations.
The medical abortion course builds foundational clinical skills such as counselling, eligibility assessment, gestational age determination, medication use, pain management, and follow-up care. It also explains service delivery models and health system requirements needed to ensure safe and effective care.
The surgical abortion course focuses on procedural care, emphasizing preparation before the procedure, safe execution, and immediate post-procedure care. It highlights the importance of readiness and adherence to quality standards to ensure safety and reliability in clinical practice.
The post-abortion care course addresses care for individuals who return after abortion, whether for confirmation of completion, management of complications, or contraception services. It emphasizes timely follow-up, complication management, and access to post-abortion contraception as essential components of care.
The human rights integration course, developed with UNFPA, strengthens understanding of how human rights principles apply to abortion care. It focuses on dignity, non-discrimination, privacy, informed choice, and accountability, helping providers translate rights-based principles into everyday clinical practice.
Overall, the four courses together provide a comprehensive and standardized approach to abortion care training. By combining clinical knowledge with rights-based practice, the programme strengthens provider competence, improves consistency in care delivery, and enhances the quality and safety of services for care seekers.
