Contraceptive practice and attitudes in former Soviet women

For decades, abortion has been the principal birth control method for Soviet women. As indicated by some earlier local surveys, most couples use unreliable methods. Little is known about the latest trends in contraceptive use affected by the recent general liberalization of Soviet society, including more open attitudes about sex. A survey was conducted in 1991 via a questionnaire in the popular 'Health' magazine with national circulation. A total of 8059 women returned the questionnaire. The sample is selective with an overrepresentation of young and better educated urban residents, mostly from Russia and the Ukraine. Some 81% reported use of a contraceptive method during the last 5 years. Traditional methods still prevail (41% used withdrawal, rhythm and douche). Among women younger than 25 years there is a clear trend toward use of modern methods (IUD 35% and the pill 10%), although their notion of the 'pros" and 'cons' is biased. Of the respondents, 20% used a barrier method, mainly condom. The preferred method is the IUD (51%) and the pill (18%). Abortions resulting from contraceptive failure were reported by 60% of women. Eighty-nine percent considered pregnancy termination more dangerous than its prevention. For only 12% of respondents, a physician was the main source of contraceptive information, although 49% addressed him for advice. The results indicate a gap between conservative birth control practice and preferences of Russian women, with a positive general trend in the near future.