Our objectives were to determine women’s knowledge of the effectiveness of different contraceptive methods and the risks of thrombosis using hormonal contraceptives, and their attitudes regarding the acceptability of bleeding irregularities and weight change. An additional aim was to determine what information women want to be given about contraceptives.
To satisfy the study objectives, a series of semi-structured focus groups were conducted with women of different life stages and backgrounds from Oxford. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Qualitative data were collected through discussion with group members. Forty-five women attended four focus groups. Women were segregated into the following groups: professional working mothers; non-professional mothers; young, unmarried professional women; and undergraduate students.
The study concluded that the women tended to overestimate the risks and underestimate the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. They were resistant to interference with their bleeding patterns and weight. Further studies are required to explore women’s knowledge of, and attitudes to, contraceptive effectiveness and adverse health effects to help the clients and provide family planning services more efficiently. Efficient family planning counseling is essential for avoiding unintended pregnancies.
Reference: https://srh.bmj.com/content/26/2/73
