Publication:

A survey of indications of MTP and concurrent contraceptive practices in a tertiary care institute

Background Despite liberalization of MTP services & awareness of contraception maternal mortality due to induced abortion is high in India. This is a prospective analysis done to know the various reasons for seeking Induced abortion and the subsequent adoption of contraceptive methods concurrently. Lack of availability, misinformation & apprehension about the various contraceptive options prevents their use and abortion is at times used as an alternative to contraception.

Methods It was a cross-sectional study of 763 women availing facilities of MTP at PDU medical college, Rajkot, Gujarat. Socio-demographic profile, reasons for seeking MTP, concurrent contraceptive practice were studied.

Results Amongst the socio-demographic profile, 55.6% women are between 20-30 years. 64.5% women seeking MTP have less than 2 living children. Family completed is the reason for MTP in 55.9%. The concurrent contraceptive adopted are Cu-T and permanent sterilization by 23.3% and 55.9% women respectively.

Conclusions Unmet need of contraception is high in India. Eligible couples especially from lower socio-economic class need to be educated for the various contraceptives available to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Counselling for post-abortal contraception is also the need of the hour.