Abstract
OBJECTIVES
To describe women's self-reported use of non-medical contraceptive methods (including barrier methods, fertility awareness-based methods and withdrawal), explore reasons for and satisfaction with choice of contraceptive methods and examine women's fertility awareness.
METHODS
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among women consulting at primary healthcare clinics not using medical contraceptives.
RESULTS
Most of the 648 participants (67%) reported using a mix of condom use, withdrawal and a calendar method, while 23% used only condoms. Eleven percent reported using the Billings ovulation method, diaphragm/cap or fertility monitor and found these methods highly satisfactory. A majority of the women who primarily used condoms also reported being satisfied. Most women actively chose non-medical contraception because it was perceived as without adverse effects, uncomplicated and effective. Fertility awareness was generally poor.
CONCLUSION
Frequent use of withdrawal and a calendar method, as well as poor fertility awareness, suggests a need for improved counselling at contraceptive clinics on fertility awareness and more effective non-medical contraceptive methods to assist women in making an informed contraceptive choice.
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