Peripartum contraceptive attitudes and practices.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Maternal Health
• Contraception

Background:

• Women's contraceptive needs and preferences often change during the peripartum period.
• Limited research exists specifically on the peripartum population's attitudes toward postpartum contraception.
• Existing contraceptive methods may not meet the needs of all women, leading to dissatisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey pregnant and postpartum women regarding their attitudes toward postpartum contraception.
• To understand contraceptive priorities and desires in relation to the index pregnancy.
• To assess awareness and interest in different contraceptive methods, including long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).

Main Methods:

• Survey administered to currently pregnant and postpartum women.
• Data collected on attitudes toward contraception, method satisfaction, and desired changes post-delivery.
• Inquiry into awareness of specific contraceptive methods, such as intrauterine contraception.

Main Results:

• Over 80% of women used contraception before pregnancy, with nearly 20% dissatisfied.
• Pregnancy dissatisfaction was higher for unplanned pregnancies (36% vs. 9%).
• Over 40% desired a change in contraceptive method after delivery; 65% had limited information on intrauterine contraception.

Conclusions:

• Childbirth significantly influences women's contraceptive priorities, with a notable shift towards long-term methods.
• There is a substantial unmet need and desire for effective postpartum contraception.
• Increased education on methods like intrauterine contraception is crucial for informed decision-making.