A study on awareness and acceptance of contraceptive methods in postpartum women in a tertiary care institute

Abstract

Background: Contraception is an important tool to reduce unwanted pregnancy and promote healthy living. The benefits of family planning program are recognized worldwide to improve health, social and economic status of families. The objective of the study is to estimate the prevalence of awareness for various contraceptive methods among postpartum women, to find the acceptance of different contraceptive methods and evaluate the factors affecting the same.Methods: The study is a cross-sectional observational study conducted among postpartum women who delivered in Narayana medical college hospital over a period of 1 year. The awareness, acceptance and reason or refusal for contraception was assessed. The data obtained was analyzed to generate graphs and tables.Results: A total of 61% women were aware of at least one method of contraception. 74% were using a contraceptive at the time of study. 39% were unaware of any contraceptive method. 49% preferred intrauterine contraceptive device. Main reason for non-acceptance of contraceptive was couple’s desire for a male child. Health professionals were the main source of imparting the knowledge of birth spacing.Conclusions: Regular antenatal counselling to all pregnant women must be done in every hospital in a village to tertiary care centres. Information should be provided about various contraceptive methods and patient should be able to choose a method of her own choice. A strong motivation is required to adopt a suitable method individualised to each woman.