We’re thrilled to share the journey of the Medical Students for Choice (MSFC) chapter in Riga, Latvia, the first of its kind in the Baltics. Our chapter, based at Riga Stradins University (RSU), one of Latvia’s largest medical schools, was inspired by the 2022 FIAPAC conference held at RSU. This event, organized by the International Federation of Abortion and Contraception Professionals, connected us with reproductive rights activists worldwide and set the stage for our mission to advocate for reproductive rights.
Our current team—Isabell von Waitz, Patricia Steuber, Hanna Kreuzer, Féline Kuhn, and Linda Schulz—came together with a common goal: to empower choice in reproductive healthcare. United in our commitment, we’ve organized various educational activities, including film evenings, open discussions, and lectures. A highlight was a session with Theresa Nisslmüller, a member of Doctors for Choice and an OBGYN, who shared invaluable insights into reproductive rights in Germany. We’ve also conducted two Papaya Workshops, also known as a Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) Workshop. An MVA is a safe and easy method of providing early surgical abortion. A papaya is used as the model and students use the MVA procedure to remove papaya pulp and seeds from the papaya which simulates suctioning the products of conception from the uterus. This was possible through support from MSFC HQ and our mentors, Dr. Olga Plisko and Dr. Anita Ungure, and resources from German MSFC chapters. The latest workshop featured Marcela Trocha, a veteran reproductive rights activist from Poznan, drawing over 50 enthusiastic medical students.
Impressions from the first Papaya Workshop. (Photo: Aleksandrs Oborins)
In addition to workshops, we hosted a lecture on Transgender Healthcare, emphasizing the diverse needs and choices within healthcare. Our book club discussion on “Ejaculate Responsibly” by Gabrielle Blair broadened our perspective on reproductive health by highlighting the often overlooked role of male fertility in contraception.
Our motivation is deeply rooted in the belief in free choice and bodily autonomy. The 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade intensified the urgency of the pro-choice movement globally. In Europe, rising far-right ideologies threaten reproductive rights, making our advocacy for gender equality and social justice more critical than ever. Through our work, we aim to increase the availability of abortion providers and ensure comprehensive reproductive healthcare training for medical students, an often neglected area in medical education.
One of our most rewarding moments was the overwhelming response to our first Papaya Workshop in the Baltics. The students’ enthusiasm has inspired us to consider making these workshops a regular part of our activities. Our mentors, who led the workshop for the first time, have been strong advocates for integrating such practical training into the medical curriculum.
First Papaya Workshop in the Baltics with mentors Dr. Olga Plisko and Dr. Anita Ungure (Photo: Aleksandrs Oborins)
Our journey has included challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was creating a collaborative space between international students and students from the OBGYN association. Securing Manual Vacuum Aspirators (MVAs) for our workshops was another challenge, initially solved by borrowing kits from German MSFC chapters, leading to a cross-border collaboration. Recently, through the generous support of Doctors for Choice Germany, we’ve become proud owners of our MVAs, enabling us to continue our Papaya Workshops independently.
These experiences have taught us the importance of reaching out and building connections with like-minded organizations and individuals. Collaboration and careful planning have allowed us to overcome obstacles and lay the foundation for sustained and impactful advocacy. Looking ahead, securing consistent funding will be essential as we continue to expand our workshops and other activities.
From left to right: Diāna Grasmane (Human Rights activist), Arturs Zaremba (Clinical Psychologist) and Dr. Una Gailiša (Endocrinologist) speaking at the Transgender Healthcare Lecture.
Our goal is to destigmatize abortion, dispel myths, and promote safer practices in reproductive healthcare, ultimately strengthening the doctor-patient relationship and fostering greater trust in healthcare settings.
For any student considering starting an MSFC chapter at their medical school, our advice is simple: take the plunge. Connect with like-minded individuals and feminist organizations. The MSFC network is strong and supportive, and if there isn’t a chapter in your country, neighboring ones can offer guidance. Build connections, find supportive physicians, and start with accessible activities like movie screenings. Together, we can advance reproductive healthcare rights and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and healthcare providers.
Second Papaya Workshop with mentor Dr. Olga Plisko. (Photo: Aleksandrs Oborins)
