A study on contraceptive use among women attending immunization clinic at McGann teaching hospital, Shimoga

Abstract

Background: India is the first country to implement National family planning programme in 1952. Use of contraceptives can prevent at least 25% of all maternal deaths by allowing women to prevent unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, and protect themselves from sexually transmitting diseases. Even though there is wide availability of various types of contraceptives, the rate of population growth and unplanned pregnancies is still high. The acceptance and knowledge of contraceptive methods varies within the societies and factors responsible operate at the individual, family and community level.Methods: A hospital based, cross-sectional study was conducted during August 2018 at McGann Hospital, Shimoga. The study sample included 200 women in the age group of 20 to 40 years attending immunization clinic with their children. Informed consent was taken from the subjects after explaining the purpose of the study to them. A pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data by face-to-face interview of the study participants.Results: Out of 200 women 51% were aged between 20 to 24 years of age. Majority (72%) were Hindus. 67.5% were currently using contraception. Among acceptors of family planning 42.3% had undergone tubectomy. OCP was the most commonly used temporary method of contraception. Age of the woman, religion, education, husband’s education and number of children were found to be significantly associated with contraceptive usage.Conclusions: Factors influencing fertility and contraceptive practices should be properly assessed and addressed. Newly married couples should be motivated for accepting spacing methods.