As part of a broader
investigation into maternal and child health, this study aimed to explore
barriers to preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted
infections (STIs) for women in southeast Madagascar, in order to inform the
development of interventions by a local non-governmental organisation.
A year-long mixed methods study was conducted. Qualitative information was
obtained from 246 participants through focus groups, single-event and serial
qualitative interviews. Quantitative data was collected through a closed-ended
questionnaire with a sample of 373 women of reproductive age. Data was analysed
using pre-determined and emerging themes.
Family planning and sexual
health services are not well integrated into other health services, nor
routinely offered. Barriers to contraceptive use include actual or perceived
side effects of hormonal methods, inaccurate information from health providers,
and lack of support from partners or family members. STI prevalence is high,
concurrent sexual relationships are common, and condom use
is limited.
Women's ability to prevent unintended pregnancies and
STIs could be improved through measures aiming to dispel misconceptions about
eligibility for and perceived risks of hormonal contraceptives, increase
support for family planning among partners and families, and reframe the
socio-cultural meaning of condom use
in sexual relationships.
Purchase full article at: http://goo.gl/jKcyO0
By:
- 1 Community Health Department , ONG Azafady, Fort Dauphin , Madagascar.
More at: https://twitter.com/hiv_insight
No comments:
Post a Comment