IUD-Related knowledge and practice among women in Afghanistan: A cross-sectional survey study

Abstract

Background: Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) are T-shaped devices that can be inserted into the uterus to provide contraception. IUDs are a form of long-term contraception that are effective birth control methods with few adverse effects. The purpose of this study is to reveal the current baseline for the knowledge and practice of Afghan women toward intrauterine devices and identify the related sociodemographic factors. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted from October 2022 to December 2022 among married women aged at least 18 years old living in Herat province of Afghanistan. A total of 1000 females in Herat were asked, and 411 agreed to participate in this study (response rate=41.1%). Results: Only one-fourth of the participants responded that health care workers are their primary source of information on health issues (25.3%). More than nine-tenths of the participants had poor knowledge level of IUD (91.5%) while only one-twentieth of participants were using IUD (5.8%). Number of children, education level, occupation, and economic status were found to be significantly associated with participants’ knowledge on IUD. Conclusion: Government and health organizations should provide trainings focused on increase of knowledge on IUD and its related issues. The programs should also persuade women to use IUD and its safety. Training should be targeted not only to women, but to family practice physicians, nurse and midwifery practitioners and other providers who offer family planning counseling and services.