Study on Perspectives and Practice of Contraception in Women
ABSTRACT Purpose of the study This study is undertaken to determine the knowledge, preferences, practice, experiences and perspectives of women toward contraception and also to note down the various factors influencing the acceptance and usage of contraception among women. Methodology Five hundred women of age group 15 to 49 years who were currently married were studied. Sexually active unmarried women were excluded from the study. The study data were obtained using a questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided under four broad headings: personal details, knowledge, usage and expectations. The data collected was analyzed. Changing trends, knowledge, usage and expectations of the women toward various contraceptive methods were noted. Results The most common method used was female sterilization (41.4%), followed by intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) (14.8%) and condom (9%). Among the sociodemographic patterns, women belonging to lower socioeconomic status, with rural background, younger women, Christians and illiterate women the prevalence of contraceptive use was lower compared to their counterparts. Spacing methods was most commonly used by women residing in urban and women with higher education background. Couple protection rate in this study was 77%. The unmet need was 9.8%. Knowledge of female sterilization was most common in 93% followed by oral contraceptives (OCP) 73.2%. The knowledge was higher among upper socioeconomic status and urban women. 78.8% had discussion with spouse. More than 70% had preference for male child. Conclusion This study stresses upon the fact that contraception services should be affordable delivered by informed choice and sensitive to individual's needs. The unmet need of contraception can be reduced by improving female literacy, contraceptive counseling, male involvement and availability of contraceptive services. These measures will indeed reduce unwanted pregnancies, improve self-esteem of women as they will have control over their fertility and in future reduce population explosion to some extent by limiting the family. Capsule Fertility control is an important medical discipline, it is essential for the welfare of the individual, family and the nation. The usage of contraceptive method depends on knowledge, preference, acceptance and experience. Objectives of the study • To determine the awareness, perception and acceptance of contraceptive methods • To study the contraception usage by the women. How to cite this article Shetty VH, Nagarathnamma R. Study on Perspectives and Practice of Contraception in Women. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2016;8(1):16-20.