Understanding factors affecting the acceptance of post-abortion contraception: A comprehensive analysis

To assess the proportion of post-abortion contraceptive acceptance and the determinant factors in the utilization of contraception. It is a prospective observational study done on 468 women who presented for abortion care in a tertiary care centre. Data were collected using a pre-structured questionnaire, counselled for contraceptive usage. The family planning method accepted was noted and followed up after one month. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and expressed in the form of frequency and percentages. In the present study, the magnitude of acceptance of post-abortion contraception was 73.08%. Most women were in the age group 21-30 years (62.82%), the majority belonged to lower socioeconomic status (43.16%), 78.62% were homemakers. Age of the women, education status, and history of the previous usage of contraception showed a positive association with acceptance of post-abortion contraception. The most accepted method was tubectomy (24.35%) followed by barrier contraception (20.51%). During follow-up after 1 month, 69.24% were willing to continue the same method and 5.1% opted for a change in the contraceptive method. The common determinant factors for not opting for post-abortion contraception were due to religious belief, partner opposition, fear of side effects of contraceptive methods and willingness to concieve again shortly. The proportion of post-abortion family planning utilization is good but could be improved. Education before and especially at the time of abortion strongly influenced the usage of family planning services especially in rural areas where the accessibility is comparatively low. Family planning counseling during the time of abortion plays an important role in accepting post-abortion family planning services. At all levels of health care, family planning counseling and services should be provided to those who come for abortion to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality.