Publication:

Knowledge, attitude and practice study on immediate postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device method of family planning

Background The objectives of the study were to assess knowledge, attitude and practice in post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device method of family planning and to know about willingness for post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device (PPIUCD) when knowledge is provided for the same.

Methods This is a cross sectional observational study including 1200 patients of immediate post-partum period (<48 hrs of delivery), delivered at Safdarjung hospital. Women were evaluated with the help of a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire.

Results Out of 1200 women 864 (72%) were aware of some family planning method but only 672 (56%) had used some family planning method in the past. 108 (9%) women had knowledge regarding Post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device (PPIUCD). Among these, 72 (6%) women opted for PPIUCD. After knowledge regarding PPIUCD had been given, 80 more women adopted this as a method of contraception. So total 152 (12.67%) opted PPIUCD.

Conclusions This study highlights that awareness and knowledge does not always lead to use of contraceptives. A lot of educational and motivational activities are needed.