The contraceptive practice of one thousand abortion patients

This is a report on the contraceptive practice of 1000 cases who attended the Parkview clinic for termination of pregnancy. Fifty percent were not using any method of contraception at the time of conception. The principal reasons for non-use were dissatisfaction with previous methods and risk taking behaviour. Fifty percent became pregnant while using contraception, and in 20 percent methods which are generally regarded as reliable had been used. Fourteen percent were using the pill at the time of failure and this group is studied in greater detail. Improvements in contraceptive practice are suggested.