Awareness and acceptance of contraceptive methods among women in a tertiary care centre

Krithika Krishna; Rajiv Kumar Saxena; Monica Basavaraju; Vani J. Narayan

doi:10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20242483

Authors

Krithika Krishna Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Oxford Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Rajiv Kumar Saxena Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Oxford Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Monica Basavaraju Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Oxford Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Vani J. Narayan Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Oxford Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20242483

Keywords:

Practices, Attitudes, Knowledge, Socio-demographic factors, Tertiary care center, Family planning, Contraceptive awareness

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding contraception among women attending a tertiary care center, alongside examining the influence of socio-demographic factors on family planning decisions.

Methods: A descriptive, prospective study was conducted over six months with 596 women participants, using convenient sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire covering demographic information, contraceptive awareness, and practices.

Results: The majority of participants were aged 21-25 years (43.1%). A significant portion had one child (59.7%), and a positive correlation between higher education levels and contraceptive use was observed. Barrier methods were the most commonly used form of contraception (32.9%), with husbands and health personnel being primary sources of information. Notably, 62.8% used contraception for spacing of births. Barriers to use included partner opposition (22.3%) and the desire for a male child (13.3%).

Conclusions: The study highlights a relatively high level of contraceptive awareness and positive attitudes towards family planning among women. However, persistent socio-cultural barriers and a limited range of contraceptive methods used suggest the need for comprehensive educational strategies targeting both women and their partners, alongside efforts to increase access to and information about LARCs.

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