A Study on Contraceptive Practice and Associated Factors among Women Garments Worker

Abstract

Introduction: The garment industry is a crucial contributor to the economy of Bangladesh and employs a large number of women of reproductive age. However, contraceptive use among these women is low, which can lead to unintended pregnancies and adverse health outcomes. The present study aimed to assess the contraceptive practices and associated factors among female garment workers in Bangladesh. Methods: This prospective observational cross- sectional study was conducted at Islami Bank Hospital, Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The study duration was 1 year, from November 2021 to October 2022. During this period, a total of 300 garment workers were enrolled in the study following the inclusion and exclusion criteria from those employed at any of the various garments of Mirpur region, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Result: The study found that a majority of participants were aged 21-25 years (44.33%), Muslim (77.67%), had a primary level of education (44.33%), and had 1-2 children (69.33%). Almost half of the participants had good knowledge of contraception (48.33%), 66.67% had a positive attitude and 66.00% reported using contraception regularly. The most commonly used method of contraception was oral contraceptive pills (43.04%), followed by condoms (29.13%), and injections (22.17%). A considerable number of participants (14.35%) reported an unknown source of contraception. Among the 70 participants who did not use contraceptives, the most commonly reported reasons were an expectation that the patient will not get pregnant (45.71%) and partner refusal (41.43%). Only 25.33% of participants had access to family planning services. The accessibility of family planning services was significantly associated with the knowledge of contraception, the attitude toward contraception, and the use of contraception. The use of contraception was higher among participants who reported access to family planning services (84.93%) compared to those who did not have access (59.91%). Conclusion: The study highlights the low prevalence of contraceptive use among female garment workers in Bangladesh and the need for increased access to family planning services. Partner involvement and education on contraceptive methods and their side effects may also contribute to increased contraceptive use.