Patterns of contraceptive use among Thai women aged ≥40 and at risk of pregnancy

Abstract

Objectives The aims of the study were to identify the patterns of contraceptive use among Thai women aged ≥40 years and the reasons for not using contraception. Methods This cross-sectional study included sexually active women aged 40–49 years in Khon Kaen, Thailand. Information on contraceptive practice and reasons for not using contraception was collected through a self-reported questionnaire. The unmet need for a modern method of contraception and the unmet need for any method of contraception were calculated based on the percentage of participants who were not using contraception but who wanted to postpone or prevent pregnancy. Results Of 400 women, 75.5% were currently using some form of contraception, with female sterilisation being the most used (35%). The main reasons for not using contraception included perceived low risk of pregnancy, health concerns, infrequent sexual intercourse and wish to become pregnant. The unmet need for a modern method of contraception was 23.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.20%, 0.29%). Having children was a significant protective factor (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.18; 95% CI 0.08, 0.37; p = 0.000). The unmet need for any method of contraception was 12% (95% CI 0.09%, 0.16%). Previous abortion was a significant risk factor for not using any contraception (adjusted OR 2.23; 95% CI 1.12, 4.44; p = 0.022). Conclusion Although the use of contraception was common, some participants displayed a lack of knowledge and/or did not practise family planning. Our findings address the importance of improving knowledge about the risks of pregnancy and the need for effective contraception in this population.