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Family planning in Italy
A Spinelli1, M Grandolfo, S Donati
1Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Istituto Superiore di Sanita.
Advances in Contraception : the Official Journal of the Society for the Advancement of Contraception
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Family planning knowledge and contraceptive use in Italy show regional disparities. Despite increased use of reliable methods, lack of information and fear of side effects hinder adoption, particularly among young, less educated women.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Reproductive Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Four knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) surveys on family planning were conducted in Italy over five years.
- Contraceptive use has increased in Italy over the past two decades, influenced by social and legislative changes.
- Significant regional differences in contraceptive practices persist across Italy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding family planning in Italy.
- To identify barriers to modern contraceptive use.
- To analyze regional variations in contraceptive uptake and methods.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from four national KAP surveys on family planning.
- Inclusion of data from 5044 interviewed women regarding contraceptive knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
- Statistical analysis of regional differences and reasons for non-use.
Main Results:
- Contraceptive use increased, especially in Northern Italy, but high rates of non-use and reliance on withdrawal were observed.
- Key barriers to contraception included fear of side effects and lack of information, particularly affecting young, less educated, and nulliparous women.
- While attitudes toward modern contraception were positive, knowledge, such as identifying the fertile period, remained moderate.
Conclusions:
- Lack of comprehensive information on contraception is a significant issue in Italy.
- Targeted interventions are needed to address regional disparities and improve contraceptive knowledge and uptake.
- Overcoming fear of side effects and enhancing education are crucial for promoting effective family planning.