Assessment of knowledge among ASHAs in the delivery of contraceptive information and services in coastal Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Background: Government of India (GOI) is providing comprehensive integrated health care to the urban and rural people under the umbrella of National Health Mission. ASHA as an activist, a village level community health worker acts as an interface between the community and the public health care delivery system, and plays a central role in achieving population policy goals. The aim of study was to assess the knowledge component of ASHAs in the delivery of contraceptive information and services in coastal Andhra Pradesh.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh at sub-centres among 170 ASHA workers. The study area was selected by multi stage sampling technique. Data was collected using pre tested, semi-structured interview schedule. Qualitative data was expressed in percentages, and quantitative data was expressed in mean and standard deviation.Results: The mean age of ASHAs was 28.4 years (SD±3.82). Majority (75.88%) of ASHAs had completed secondary level education, 72.94% had knowledge regarding contraception for newly married couple, and 68.23% were aware of the effective time period for intake of emergency contraceptive pills. 45.88% of ASHAs were unaware of safe period.Conclusions: Majority of ASHAs had knowledge in certain areas of contraceptive information and services, whereas some are lacking knowledge regarding safe period, emergency contraceptive pills (EC pills), progesterone only pills, missed pills and period of condom use after vasectomy. Hence, it is essential to ensure that they receive quality training on contraceptive information and services from qualified personnel at regular intervals.

Effectiveness of Structured Teaching Programme on Knowledge Regarding Non-scalpel Vasectomy among Accredited Social Health Activists in a Selected Area of Delhi

“…10 The present study showed that among ASHA workers, only 10% had adequate knowledge regarding NSV which was contrary to another study done in Andhra Pradesh, wherein the knowledge of ASHAs was assessed about contraceptives using a semi-structured interview schedule and it was found that 72.94% of ASHAs had adequate knowledge about contraceptive methods. 8 Also, according to a study conducted in the Surendra Nagar district of Gujarat, it was seen that around 80% of ASHAs had knowledge about NSV which was in contrast with the present study. 11…”

“…A few studies 5,6,8,9 showed that non-scalpel vasectomy is an effective family planning method for males and ASHA workers can motivate and ensure greater acceptance towards the same among the general population.…”

“…A total of 68.23% had knowledge about the proper usage of emergency contraceptive pills and 45.88% of them were not aware of the safe period. 8 Another study was conducted on 100 ASHA workers, working in health centres of Udupi Taluka in Karnataka. Chettinad Health City Med.…”