BACKGROUND
The means and services used for prevention of pregnancies is referred as Family Planning (FP) (1). The successful implementation of Family Planning has remained a difficult task in Pakistan because of socio-cultural beliefs, lack of information or misinformation and lack of access to contraceptive services. Cultural taboos and social bonds related to women are major factors in the low uptake of FP services (2).
METHODOLOG
This study is the analysis of retrospective secondary data from an NGO, HELP’s Family Planning clinics, to determine the trends and patterns of contraceptive methods used in two squatter settlements(Neelam Colony and KKB) in Karachi from 2010-2018.
The data originated from Mother and Child centers of HELP. Records of the monthly data collected by CHWs from their catchments areas were obtained and it was cumulated annually. Variables studied included number of women of childbearing age (CBA), number of married women of childbearing age, information about number of family planning users, number of babies born. The data also included different types of FP methods used by married couples. For analysis, the data was entered in Microsoft Excel and then exported to SPSS version 19. Mean and percentages, graphs and other graphics for all the variables were calculated and created through SPSS 19 and Excel.
RESULTS
The Mean number of FP users were 43% in Neelum Colony and 48% at KKB. Similar data was reported in PDHS 2017-18 that 34% of married women in Pakistan were opting for methods of family planning (3). Use of Condoms was the most commonly used method of family planning in Neelum Colony and in KKB, recorded as being 36%, and 41% users respectively. The FP2020 reports that there are 34% condom users in Pakistan (4). Our study also found that that that the increase in use of FP was influenced by increased reminders and nudging techniques during counselling by CHWs.
CONCLUSIONS
To progressively increase the practice of couples using modern FP methods, it is crucial that repeated messages giving correct scientific information regarding FP methods be given frequently. Acceptance of using FP has to be developed primarily in the male counterpart and therefore, male social mobilisers should form part of a team.