Satisfaction among women: differences between current users of barrier (male condom) and non-barrier methods

Comparing the satisfaction and efficacy of Cyclofem and contraceptive pills among females in Northern Iran: A randomized controlled trial study

Hormonal contraceptives are the most effective method for birth control, though they may have some default or complications. This research aimed to comparison of the efficacy and satisfaction of Cyclofem with oral contraceptives (OCs) among females. A descriptive-comparative method was conducted on 80 women who were selected through cluster sampling during November 2011-December 2012. The selected subjects start using OCs or Cyclofem for the 1(st) time in their life. They evaluated in 2 times frames, at the beginning of the study and then 3 and 6 months after the contraceptive precautions. The data were collected by questionnaire. The data were analysed using parametric and nonparametric test in SPSS 16 software. The reasons for discontinuation of the methods were varied, in which 50% of the sample group were Cyclofem users who discontinued because of menstrual changes and the desire to use other methods, and 50% were the OC users whose reason was medical problems, and absent-mindedness was the last reason for 35.7% of the cases. The efficacy of the both (OCs and Cyclofem) was high and only one unwanted pregnancy occurred at the end of the 6(th) month among OC users. There was no significant difference in term of satisfaction of two groups at the end of 3-6 months (PV = 0.433). The results indicated that Cyclofem can be well used by those women who desire for an easy and effective method which is not disturbing the sexual activity and does not also need to be used daily, but the users should be consulted before using the method.

Experiences of vasectomy: a phenomenological study

BACKGROUND

Irregular growth of population is considered as a serious threat to the international community. It is a major obstacle for socioeconomic development. One of the methods to control the population is by providing effective methods of contraception. Vasectomy, as a simple and effective contraceptive method, has been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is very important to involve men in the control of population and the promotion of reproductive health.

AIMS

This study was conducted with the aim of describing the experiences of the men who underwent vasectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This qualitative study was performed by using a phenomenological research design. The sample consisted of 14 vasectomized men selected through purposive sampling method. In-depth and open interviews with participants were conducted to collect the data.

RESULTS

The results were transcribed and recorded in comprehensive field notes. Colaizzi's method was used to analyze the data. Four themes emerged from the obtained results of the present study, which described the structure of the experiences of men as follows: Opinions about vasectomy, own perceptions about vasectomy, experiences with the procedure, and recommendation of vasectomy to others.

CONCLUSION

Vasectomy can influence achievement of family planning goals and participation of men in this regard. The results of this study can help the planners and health-care providers for appropriate interventions, and training and counseling programmers to increase the acceptability and uptake of vasectomy in the society.

Satisfaction and discontinuation of contraception by contraceptive method among university women

This study examined the association between contraceptive method and satisfaction and discontinuation. Few studies have examined these issues in the university setting and how they may potentially impact unintended pregnancy rates. This study examined data from 172 college women aged 18-36 years enrolled in the Study on Contraceptive Knowledge in Students, a cross-sectional study conducted at a large, public university. Logistic regression was used to model the association between current type of contraceptive method used (non-coital dependent vs. coital dependent) and satisfaction as well as previous type of contraceptive method used and discontinuation of that method. Nearly 80% of contracepting women currently used a non-coital dependent method. After adjustment for age, race, and location where contraception was obtained, current non-coital dependent users were significantly more likely to be satisfied with their contraceptive method compared to women using coital dependent methods (OR = 4.73, 95% CI: 1.64, 13.63). After adjustment for age, race, and history of pregnancy, women who used non-coital dependent methods of contraception were 91% less likely to have discontinued their method compared to women who used coital dependent methods (OR = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.20). Healthcare workers and public health professionals can counsel women on using contraceptive methods that best suit their needs. By doing so, patient satisfaction and consistent contraceptive use may improve and lead to a decrease in unintended pregnancies.

Contraception and women over 40 years of age: mixed-method systematic review

AIM

This paper is a report of a mixed-method systematic review to identify barriers to, and facilitators of, contraceptive needs and choices of women over 40 years old.

BACKGROUND

Women over 40 years of age who do not want to conceive have specific needs for contraception to prevent unwanted, unplanned and unintended pregnancies prior to menopause.

DATA SOURCES

Six databases were searched for published and grey literature from September 1997 to September 2007, along with the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The Internet, professional networks and hand searching were also used.

REVIEW METHODS

Mixed-method synthesis using Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Co-ordinating Centre phased design.

FINDINGS

Guidelines to inform clinical decision-making were located but did not take account of age-related social factors affecting women's choices or local service availability. Women's access to services and contraceptive choices were influenced by educational level, general awareness of available methods, fear of side effects, women's social standing, religious and cultural beliefs, personal control, and confidentiality. The main factors influencing compliance and continuation rates were knowledge, positive experience and confidence, unacceptable side effects and safety concerns, information, support and advice, and ongoing husband/partner influences.

CONCLUSION

The utility of clinical guidelines could be improved by incorporating socio-cultural factors and women's views. Novel approaches to evidence translation and facilitation are required. Focusing on user-led, age-appropriate services rather than a 'one size fits all' approach could improve the contraceptive choices and outcomes for women over 40 years old.