Knowledge, attitude and practice of parous women regarding contraception

To determine the frequency of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding contraception of parous women.

A cross- sectional survey.

The Out-patient Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sir Syed Hospital, Karachi, from October 2008 to March 2009.

A self-maintained structured questionnaire was used to interview 100 parous women, who had practiced contraception. This questionnaire covered socio-demographic characteristics of women as well as knowledge of different contraceptive methods. Attitude towards contraception, religious beliefs, myths and misconceptions were also assessed. It also covered decision-making and involvement of other family members in the choice of contraceptive methods. Results of knowledge, attitude and practice were presented in terms of frequencies and percentages. Exclusion criteria were primigravida, nullipara and sub-fertile women and those who had never used any contraceptive method.

Majority of women were Muslim (88%) and educated housewives (78%) while 55% belonged to lower middle class. Majority of the women (70%) received information from a health professional. Male condom was used by 57%; 43% used injectables, 33% used oral contraceptive pills, 28% practiced withdrawal and 30% used intrauterine contraceptive device. Majority of the women (78%) were self-motivated and 67% considered family planning as their own responsibility. Majority (65%) believed that contraception is not permitted in religion and 57% of women discontinued contraception because of side effects.

This study highlights good knowledge and positive attitude of women regarding contraception.