Knowledge, attitude and practice of contraceptive methods among women with an unplanned pregnancy

Abstract

Objectives The study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of contraceptive methods among women with an unplanned pregnancy, aiming to improve their reproductive health and increase their understanding of contraceptive methods.Design This is a cross-sectional study.Setting The study was conducted at the Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Hubei between 20 November 2022 and 20 January 2023.Participants Women with an unplanned pregnancy were included.Primary and secondary outcome measures The questionnaire was in the Chinese language and included demographic data, KAP assessments. Multivariate linear regression was performed to explore the factors associated with knowledge or practice scores.Results During the study period, 510 participants with valid questionnaires were included. The KAP scores were 7.30±2.91, 32.61±3.13 and 28.58±3.59, respectively. Place of residence (urban vs non-urban; B=0.66, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.29, p=0.043) and educational level (master’s degree or above vs post secondary or below; B=1.07, 95% CI 0.17 to 1.96, p=0.020) were positively associated with knowledge. Knowledge (B=0.25, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.32, p<0.001) and attitude (B=0.26, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.32, p<0.001) were positively associated with practice.Conclusions This study indicates a low level of KAP regarding contraceptive methods among women facing unplanned pregnancies. Place of residence and educational level were positively associated with knowledge scores. These findings may help improve future sex education policies and programmes.