Evaluation of Knowledge Regarding Contraceptive among Women of Reproductive Age Group in A Hilly Northern State
Background: The reason why family planning techniques aren't used is a lack of awareness about the numerous contraceptive options. The current study examined the knowledge of contraceptives among women of reproductive age and was carried out in Himachal Pradesh. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of females in the state of Himachal Pradesh who are of reproductive age was carried out between January 2023 and March 2023 utilizing Google forms. Until 400 replies were received, the google form was distributed to female state residents in the reproductive age range for responses via email and social networking sites like Whatsapp groups, Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin. We learned about their socio-demographic make-up and their familiarity with contraception. The Epi info v7 programme was used to run the data through the necessary statistical tests. Results: A total of 400 females of reproductive age were participated, maximum 155 (38.75%) were having age between 26-30 years, educated up to Matric & Senior Secondary 158(39.5%), Hindu 379(94.75%) and unemployed/housewife 323(80.75%). In the present study 13.75% (55) females had very good knowledge (16-20 marks) towards contraceptives, 67.5% (270) having good knowledge (12-15 marks), 16.5% (66) having fair knowledge (8-11 marks) and 2.25% (9) having poor knowledge (<8 marks). Conclusions: This study found that study participants had a respectable degree of awareness about contraceptive options. To encourage the use of contemporary contraceptive techniques among women, ongoing education and regular communication on the significance of birth control are necessary.