Awareness and utilization of postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device among postnatal women in Vijayapur

BACKGROUND: A fair proportion of women face an unmet need for family planning during the 1st year following childbirth. The postpartum period is an optimal time for effective contraception as the new mother is more receptive to accept family planning. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to determine the awareness and utilization of postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device (PPIUCD) among postnatal women belonging to Vijayapur district in Northern Karnataka. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted over the duration of 1 month among postnatal women admitted at Vijayapur district hospital. RESULTS: Only 20% of the women were aware, 6% had accepted, and 17% were willing to accept. Most of the acceptors were younger in age, better educated, and primipara and had delivered male baby, although there was no statistical significance. A significant number of acceptors were from urban areas and had undergone cesarean section. CONCLUSION: Awareness and acceptance of PPIUCD are extremely low. Concerted effort is needed to be boost the utilization rates of this effective and safe contraceptive during the postpartum period.