Related Experiment Videos
Increase in diaphragm use in a university population
JOGN Nursing; Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing
|September 1, 1979
Summary
University women showed a significant increase in diaphragm use for contraception. Concerns about side effects from other methods like pills and IUDs drove this trend, suggesting a potential rise in diaphragm popularity.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Contraception Research
- Public Health Trends
Background:
- The diaphragm is a long-standing barrier method of contraception.
- Contraceptive method choice is influenced by various factors including efficacy, side effects, and accessibility.
- University-aged women represent a key demographic for reproductive health research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate trends in contraceptive method choice among university women.
- To identify the primary reasons for selecting the diaphragm method.
- To assess the potential for increased diaphragm use in the broader population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of clinic records from December 1973 to December 1976.
- Analysis of patient data including contraceptive method acceptance rates.
- Distribution and analysis of questionnaires to understand patient motivations for method choice.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant increase in diaphragm acceptors was observed over the study period.
- In the fall semester of 1976, diaphragm acceptance (49%) exceeded oral contraceptive pill acceptance (46%).
- Questionnaire data indicated that concerns regarding side effects of oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices (IUDs) were the main drivers for choosing the diaphragm.
Conclusions:
- A notable upward trend in diaphragm use among educated young women was identified.
- Concerns about the side effects of hormonal and other contraceptive methods are significant factors in method selection.
- This trend among university women may foreshadow a broader resurgence in diaphragm use in the general population.