Contraceptive choice in the completed family

Abstract

In Belgium, the contraceptive choices and views on completed family size were studied. The study involved a 2-page questionnaire; the 1st part was self-administered while the 2nd half of the questionnaire allowed for the physician to interview the respondents. The survey studied the demographic characteristics of the respondents and the relationship of these characteristics to contraceptive choice, family size and possible future choice in contraception. Demographic information assayed included age and occupation and religion of the respondent and the number of unplanned children. 235 of the 359 respondents (2/3) considered their family complete. 70% of those surveyed used some form of contraception with oral contraceptives and female sterilization being the most popular currently used methods and oral contraceptives and condoms being the most popular ever used method. Motivations for contraceptive choice were also evaluated (family health, age, socioeconomic conditions, etc). Although a large number of unplanned pregnancies were reported, they were not necessarily unwanted. The failure a contraceptive method may account for this. Over 80% of those surveyed had used oral contraceptives at some time. Although the couples agreed on family size, the reasoning behind their decision was obtuse and not well planned. Sterilization created mixed emotions among both partners. Its popularity stems from the standard recommendation of discontinued use of oral contraceptives after age 35. However, doctors need to be considerate of the ambivalent feelings of their patients and recommend choices that leave options open without presenting health risks.