Attitudes and behavior towards contraception among Greek women during reproductive age: a country-wide survey

Abstract

Objectives: The study objectives were to explore current contraceptive behavior of Greek women during reproductive age. Study design: Data were drawn from a country-wide survey, conducted with the use of a self-administered questionnaire. The sample, numbering 797 women of ages 16–45 years, was representative of the Greek female population of reproductive age. Results: The most common contraceptive method reported was the male condom (MC) (33.9%) followed by coitus interruptus (CI) (28.8%), oral pill (4.8%), and coil (3.6%). Other methods counted for a 5% and no use of contraception reached a 23.8%. Attitudes over responsibility of using contraception were also explored. The majority of respondents (52%) stated that contraception use is the responsibility of men. The probability of reporting that women should be responsible in using contraception was higher in women aged 25–34 years, in those with higher level of knowledge over contraception issues and in those with an experience of abortion. Conclusions: The need for sexual education and easy access to counseling services is apparent in order to promote optimal contraception decision-making. The role of women in taking active responsibility over contraception use should be of great importance in reproductive health promotion projects.