A cross sectional study to asses factors affecting family planning practices in two semiurban communities of a developing country

India is the first country that adopted an official family planning programme, in 1952. Despite concerted efforts we have failed in controlling population.

A cross sectional study was conducted to ascertain family planning practices in married females of two semiurban communities in Pune and determinants thereof.

Unit of study was a married woman in reproductive age group 16–45 years.

A close-ended, pre tested structured interview schedule was prepared. Face to face interview was conducted. Data was analyzed in EPI 2002.

Knowledge about contraception was present in 98% however prevalence of use was 57.87%. Tubectomy was the most common method practiced. Contraceptive use varied significantly with education of respondent, education of spouse, socioeconomic status, husband wife communication and religion. The issues leading to a wide gap between knowledge and practice of contraception by females need to be addressed. There is no role of family type in acceptance of contraception.