Study of the client experience and continuation rate of postpartum intrauterine Copper-T device in semi-urban population in India

Abstract

Background: Postpartum intrauterine copper device (PPIUCD) is a reliable and efficient method of contraception for women. In spite of its ease of administration, its acceptance is very low owing to a number of factors. The current study was undertaken to analyze the continuation rates and problems among women accepting PPIUCD as contraceptive method. Methods: The present study was undertaken in the family planning department of a teaching hospital in New Delhi. It was an ambispective, observational study in which 880 beneficiaries of PPIUCD were telephonically contacted and interviewed. A pro forma containing demographic profile, obstetric history of the women, date and timing of insertion of PPIUCD, source of information about PPIUCD, side effects encountered, willingness to continue, and reasons of discontinuation, if applicable, was filled and the data, collected thus, were analyzed. Results: Most of the women enrolled in the study had a mean age of 26.5 (±4.1) years; the average parity was two. The timing of insertion of PPIUCD was postplacental in majority of women (91.7%). Most of the women received information about PPIUCD from health-care workers (90.1%). It was found that 86.7% of women were using PPIUCD at the time of interview and 73.3% were satisfied with it and willing to continue further. The predominant side effect observed was pain abdomen (15%), followed by menstrual irregularity. Conclusion: The present study revealed a high continuation rate of PPIUCD. Health-care professionals were the foremost source of information for PPIUCD. It is a highly effective method which needs to be popularized among the masses by the active participation of media and other agencies as it has the potential to bridge the gaps in existing family planning services.