In a frank series of interviews, Soviet women, from Russia, Ukraine and Georgia talk to producers Julie Drizen and Jude Thilman about managing their birth control. It was October of 1990, a time when the government policy of openness, glasnost, was fraying. The time when abortion was the primary form of birth control was coming to an end, but contraceptives were not readily available. Women used tampons, lemons, or tried to convince their partners to use condoms. “Men,” said one woman, think using condoms are like kissing a rose behind glass.”

"Kitchen Table Talk" gives us an intimate glimpse of a culture where women were starting to get control of their reproductive health. The Soundprint documentary series features the best work of top radio producers. The award winning documentaries are renowned for drawing the listener into the story with compelling interviews, authentic voices and rich sound. From memoirs to science, health and popular culture, Soundprint creates a powerful experience the listener will not soon forget. “Kitchen Table Talk” is part of a Soundprint special series that looked at issues in the former Soviet Union on the eve of its breakup. Here are some other programs in the series:

“Nationalism” Produced by: Mike Schuster

“The New Generation in Russia” Produced by: Brooke Gladstone

Soundprint Executive Producer: Bill Siemering

Producer: Moira Rankin

Audio Engineer: Anna Maria de Freitas

Associate Producer: Debra Morris