ASSESSING THE ACCEPTANCE OF FAMILY PLANNING METHODS AMONG GRAND MULTIPARAS: SOCIOECONOMIC INFLUENCES AND CONTRACEPTIVE CHOICES IN INDIAN WOMEN

Background: Grand multigravidas are a common group of Indian female population who are not adequately educated about the risks and possible outcomes involved with their pregnancy and the modes of contraception available. Various socioeconomic factors surrounding their living are still held responsible for the poor acceptance of family planning methods even in this era of advancements. Objectives: This study is aimed to assess the acceptancy of various family planning methods chosen by grand multiparas and the various socio-economic factors related to it. Materials And Methods: A hospital based cross sectional study was conducted at Goa Medical college in the department of Obstetrics and gynecology, for a period of 4 months. All grand multigravidas who attended the center for obstetric care and family planning methods were included. Data was collected from hospital records and records of antenatal visits. Results: Permanent female sterilization was chosen as a method of contraception by 22.5% of the study population. Majority (48.1%) however did not choose any contraceptive methods. Various probable reasons as gathered from the couple included desire to bear male child in future, apprehension about intrauterine contraceptive devices and strong disagreement from spouse and family for permanent sterilization methods. Conclusion: Grand multiparity is common in women from lower socioeconomic class. The existing governmental policies on antenatal counselling on contraception needs to be emphasized and exercised more seriously. Couple should be counselled regarding the possible complicated outcomes in multigravida and primary importance to be directed towards improving the health of the mother.