A Study Of Knowledge, Attitude And Practices Of Contraception Among Reproductive Age Woman Seeking Medical Termination Of Pregnancy

Abstract

Introduction: India has the second largest population in the world, growing rapidly. Currently our population is increasing at the rate of 16 million each year [1]. The Government of India revised the National Population Policy in 2000, with the objective of bringing down the total fertility rate to the replacement level by the year 2010. Inspite of constant efforts by the government, unmet    needs still remain. There is a need to analyze the reasons for these unmet needs to the core in order to better understand the situation and to help the government to formulate relevant policies. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of contraception among reproductive age women seeking medical termination of pregnancy (MTP).

Materials and methods: This was an observational, prospective, questionnaire-based study, conducted on 100 women aged between 18 to 45 years, who were admitted in the ward for medical termination of pregnancy. Women who were terminating pregnancy due to congenital malformations in foetus or due to assault were excluded from the study.

Results: Most of the women were aware of male condom (96%), the most common source of information being family and friends (98%). Majority (74%) had used some method of contraception, which was mostly male condoms. The most common reason for using contraception was that they had completed their family (47%). Among the women who never used any contraception, the most common reason was fear of adverse effects (30.8%).

Conclusion: The study concluded that knowledge or awareness of contraception does not always lead to the use of the same. Many women did not use any contraception inspite of being aware of the methods due to various reasons. This shows the need for implementation of educational and motivational activities in order to enhance participation and reduce the unmet needs of family planning.