Knowledge, attitude and belief about contraception in post-partum and post abortal women in a tertiary care centre

Background: In this modern era where women have achieved the highest positions in politics, corporate world and conquered the moon, on the other side she is still fighting for her right, i.e. health. For this the women should become economically independent. The concept of waiting for a son preference by the society should be discouraged. Postpartum and post abortal period are very crucial for a women especially for many of those belonging to the villages as this may be the only time she comes in contact with a health personnel. Hence counseling should be given to all patients at this time. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in the department of obstetrics and gynecology of sir Sunder Lal hospital between August 2013 to October 2013. 230 post-partum and post abortal women were interrogated and counseled about various methods of contraception. Awareness about emergency contraception pill and MTPill was also noted. Results: Only 69% had heard about various methods of contraception. IUCD and OCP were known to most patients. Most patients knew about contraception from television and doctors. After counseling 97% patients wanted contraception. Most patients opted for IUCD, Barrier method and DepoProvera. 20% patients knew about emergency contraception pill and 34.4% patients about MTPill. Conclusions: There is lack of awareness of contraception, emergency contraception and medical abortion in women under study. Regular counseling is a must to all post-partum and post abortal women. Information should be provided about various methods and patients should be given a choice to choose the method of contraception.