STUDY OF CONTRACEPTIVE USER WOMEN IN D. I. KHAN, PAKISTAN

Since its creation, Pakistan’s population is increasing rapidly. Despite being among the first countries in South Asia to launch a national family planning program, Pakistan has poor performance in improving contraceptive prevalence. It is necessary to find why the rate of contraception use is so low in Pakistan. This study investigates the personal and social factors that influence the adoption of contraceptive methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted during the period from July 1, 06 to Aug 31, 06. The study population consisted of married women, 15- 45 years, currently using contraceptives, visiting Zanana Hospital (Government health care facility) and Farukh Gul clinic (a private clinic). The sampling method was convenient. We collected detailed information through questionnaire filling. The contents of questionnaire were about demography, literacy level, socio-economic status, contraceptive practice, adverse effects, method failure and to know whether the male partner uses the contraception. We recruited 60 women for this study according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The finding of this study revealed that majority of the women (54) in study population belong to age group 21-39. Six women were between 40-45 while only two were found in younger age group of 15-20. Regarding literacy level, 1.6% respondents could only read, 11.6% had primary education, 10% middle, 18% matriculate, 13% intermediate, 3.3% graduate and 6.6% were master. Among literate participants, 41 were housewives and 19 were employed. Most commonly adopted contraceptive method was oral pills (33.3%), followed by IUCD (26.6%), condom (21.6%), injection (13.3%) and tubal ligation 5%. Most common adverse effects observed were menstrual bleeding (15%) weight gain (15%), pain abdomen (13.3%), backache (10%) headache 10% and 8.3% were happy with their contraception, having no complaints. The findings of this study have important policy implications. Obstacles to contraceptive use in our country are related to women’s autonomy, low education, limited mobility, contraceptive methods affordability, availability and awareness