Contraceptive practice before and after termination of pregnancy: a prospective study

This study is part of a larger prospective research program focusing on termination of pregnancy (TOP). One hundred and three women requesting TOP were interviewed before the intervention and 6 months later using open and closed questions and psychological tests. This paper focuses on contraceptive practices before and after abortion. The analysis took into account specific aspects of contraceptive practices and patients' behaviors. The aims were to assess: the level of women's knowledge and practice of contraception at the time of request for a TOP; the behavioral modifications following professional counseling 6 months after TOP; the influence of psychological and sexual factors, and those linked to the women's use of contraception. Most women (n = 101) had already used recommended contraception. During the cycle that had resulted in pregnancy, more than half (n = 58) had used recommended contraception and one third had not used any contraception. Six months later, 86 women used recommended contraception, and 17 did not. The majority of women reported changes in their contraceptive methods (n = 82). Most changes were within recommended methods. The women (n = 10) who continued to practice unprotected intercourse post-TOP were slightly older, satisfied with their sexual relations with their partner, often involved in a long-term and good relationship. During post-TOP period, it is essential to take into account the psychological dynamics involved in the choice of contraceptive methods. Counseling should emphasize not only protection against an unwanted pregnancy but also protection against sexually transmitted diseases, which is often perceived as a less important issue following TOP.