Contraception and family planning: knowledge, attitude, pattern of use, and barriers among females in Gharbia Governorate, Egypt

Abstract

Aims Most contraceptive methods are designed to be used by women due to the paucity of effective contraceptive options for men. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and family-planning (FP) practice among women of reproductive-age group in Gharbia Governorate, Egypt. Materials and materials A self-administered questionnaire was developed and adapted from previous studies. Scores were used to assess the levels of knowledge, attitude, and practice concerning FP. Results The questionnaire was answered by 430 women. Current use of contraceptives was stated by 81.9%. The commonest methods included intrauterine device (44%), oral pills (20.7%), and injectables (8.4%). Knowledge was good, fair, and poor in 34.2%, 60.2%, and 5.6% of participants, respectively. Attitude was positive in 95.3%. Practice of FP was good in 67.9%. The most common barriers included fear of side effects (27.2%), lack of knowledge (23.3%), husband's refusal (13%), and for religious reasons (6.5%). Good knowledge was significantly associated with full-time job of women (P 0.05). Good practice was significantly associated with age ≥30 years (P = 0.037) and family size above 4 (P = 0.002). Knowledge and practice scores were significantly and positively, though weakly, correlated with the attitude score (rs < 0.3, P < 0.05). Conclusion The overall knowledge and attitude of respondents was good, but practice needs to be improved. Future campaigns and FP counseling should address the misconceptions about contraception, particularly side effects. Other barriers should be approached to ensure meeting of FP needs of couples.

Keywords

• contraception
• questionnaire
• survey
• women