Publication:

Contraceptive knowledge, attitude and practice among married women of reproductive age group in a rural area of Karnataka: a cross sectional study

Background India was the first country to implement Family Planning Programme in 1952. The extent of acceptance of contraceptive methods still varies within societies and also among different religious groups.

Objectives To determine knowledge, attitude, practice regarding contraceptive use among married women of reproductive age group in a rural area of Karnataka.

Methods A community based, cross sectional study was conducted among 200 married women of reproductive age group residing in a rural area of Karnataka. Data regarding knowledge, attitude, practice of contraceptive methods was collected using a predesigned questionnaire prepared in local language. Institutional ethical committee approval, informed consent from the study participants was taken and anonymity, confidentiality was ensured.

Results Out of 200 study participants, 81% had knowledge and awareness of family planning methods, positive attitude for contraceptive use was shown by 76% of study participants, 53% were practicing different contraceptive methods.

Conclusions Women education and counseling of couples can play an important role to adopt family planning methods.