Publication:

A study of different contraceptive methods: need of the hour during COVID 19 pandemic

Background COVID-19 disease is the pandemic caused by a single-stranded RNA virus that belongs to the coronavirus family known as 2019-nCoV (SARS-Co V). The disease is highly contagious and transmitted mainly by droplets or close contact. In this time of pandemic it is need of the hour to prevent more and more unwanted pregnancies. This study was to evaluate the contraceptive methods of choice which are easily available, cost effective and suitable to most of the patients during this terrible period of pandemic.

Methods This was a prospective observational study done from April 2020 to December 2020. Women coming to the OPD for contraceptive advice after medical termination of pregnancy and patients desiring postpartum contraception were included in the study. All data were collected from the OPD and IPD of our hospital. Different contraceptive methods available, their costs, hospital visits, complications, failure rate and reason for its discontinuation was analysed.

Results In this study 76.5% patients (n-459) accepted Inj. DMPA as compared to 10 % used Cu T and 13% used OC pills as a method of contraception. Inj DMPA is easily available, cost effective, has lesser side effects and need less hospital visits.

Conclusions DMPA should be made available as a first line method to all those who wishes to opt for reversible method of contraception. This study concludes, during the period of pandemic Inj DMPA was most preferred method of contraception.