Publication:

Awareness of contraception in post-partum women in a tertiary care centre

Background In this modern or scientific era even though women are working equally or one step ahead of men, in family planning decision they are still lagging behind. Postpartum period is very crucial for a woman especially for many of those belonging to the villages as this may be the only time she comes in contact with a health personnel and in a mood to listen health advice. Keeping this in mind, this crucial period was considered as opportunity to test the issue of awareness regarding contraception.

Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in the department of obstetrics and gynecology of Govt medical college and hospital, Aurangabad between August 2016 to December 2016. A total 720 post-partum women were interrogated and counselled regarding various methods of contraception.

Results Only 55.69% were aware about various methods of contraception. Awareness was maximum for Sterilisation (91%) followed by Intrauterine contraceptive device (81%) and Oral contraceptive pills (41%). Women knew about contraception from health care system (45%) and mass media (36%). After counselling 97% patients ready to use.

Conclusions There is lack of awareness regarding contraception. Contraceptive services are to be strengthened by intergrating with antenatal sevices.