Knowledge, attitude and practice towards family planning among married women in areas of low and no family planning in Giza governorate: Impact of educational intervention

Abstract

Background/aim Little or incorrect knowledge about family planning (FP) is one of the main barriers to its use. The study aimed to identify areas of low or no FP utilization; assess married women characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice toward FP; and determine the effect of FP education. Patients and methods This intervention study included 198 married women in the reproductive age. Areas of low and no FP utilization were identified by hot map software. All women in the pre-identified areas were selected. A structured questionnaire was used to assess their characteristics, knowledge attitude, and practice toward FP. FP health education sessions were done to discuss importance of FP, appropriate use of different methods, their effectiveness, and side effects. Participants’ concerns and misconceptions were also addressed. After intervention, the participants’ knowledge was assessed. Service utilization, FP demand, and contraception prevalence indicators were calculated. Results Areas of low and no FP utilization were identified on the map. Mean age of women was 23.1±6.44 years. Most (82.83%) were school educated, and 61.11% were not working. The mean scores for knowledge and attitude were 12±7.89 and 93.41±8.17, respectively. The contraception prevalence was 31.8%. Intrauterine device was the most common method among 54%, followed by pills in 23%, and 6, 8, and 5% were relying on injections, condoms, and natural methods, respectively. After health education, the mean knowledge score was significantly increased, reaching 23±8.35, and contraceptive prevalence was 43.1%. Conclusion Knowledge and attitude of the study participants toward FP was almost low. There is a need for health education and counseling sessions to enhance the utilization of FP methods.